Antique Venetian Round Millefiori African Trade Beads, 13mm Mosaic Pair

Discover a rare matching pair of antique Venetian millefiori trade beads, exquisitely crafted in the early 1900s. These remarkable round beads feature a unique molded murrine and trail decoration that showcases the skilled craftsmanship of Venetian glass artisans. With their vibrant mosaic designs, these beads are a beautiful representation of historic glasswork, bringing together Italian artistry and African cultural heritage.

Each bead measures:

• Diameter: 13 mm
• Width: 11 mm

Condition:

• Excellent, with no visible wear or damage

Crafted with the intricate millefiori ("thousand flowers") technique, each bead began with the careful layering of colored glass canes, which were then sliced to create captivating patterns resembling blooming flowers. These glass beads became widely treasured as they traveled from Venice to West Africa, where they held significant value in trade and cultural exchange. In regions like Ghana, millefiori beads were prized not only for their beauty but also as symbols of wealth and social status, continuing to be cherished in African jewelry traditions today.

Explore more of TribalGH's collection:

• Current Millefiori Beads Collection
• Antique Trade Beads Collection
• Sold Millefiori Beads Archive