Explore the charm and rarity of this antique Venetian millefiori elbow trade bead, an exquisite example of Venetian craftsmanship from the early 1900s. This very rare bead features a unique murrine pattern with delicate trail decoration, a distinctive hallmark of traditional millefiori techniques. Crafted in Venice and traded across Africa, this bead carries the legacy of centuries-old trade routes and cultural exchange.
Bead Size:
Length: 26 mm
Width: 8 mm
Condition:
Excellent condition with minor air bubbles as seen in photos, a characteristic sign of its handmade origin.
Venetian mosaic beads like this one were crafted through intricate techniques developed in Italy, where artisans fused colored glass rods (murrine) to create elaborate designs in every bead. The "millefiori" process, meaning "a thousand flowers," results in stunning patterns that are as vibrant today as they were in their prime. These beads were exchanged as valuable currency in Africa, especially in Ghana, where they remain cherished symbols of history and artistry.
