Tribalgh
Rare Antique Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Trade Beads - African Glass Beads
Rare Antique Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Trade Beads - African Glass Beads
Discover three rare, antique Venetian millefiori trade beads from the early 1900s, each intricately designed with molded murrine and delicate trail decoration. Crafted in Venice, Italy, these stunning mosaic glass beads are a testament to the artistry of Venetian beadmakers and the rich history of African trade beads.
Each bead features a beautiful array of colors and patterns, achieved through traditional mosaic techniques that layer colored glass to create floral-like designs, known as millefiori or "a thousand flowers."
Bead Size:
- Length: 18-19 mm
- Width: 10 mm
Condition:
- Very good: Lightly beveled and minor chipping at the ends (see photos).
These mosaic millefiori beads were masterfully crafted in Venice to meet the demand for decorative beads in Africa, especially Ghana, where they were highly prized. The unique technique of millefiori involved layering molten glass to create intricate floral and geometric patterns that reflect both artistry and craftsmanship. These beads were not only used as adornments but also became symbols of wealth and social status, widely traded and cherished across the African continent.
Complete your collection or add a rare piece of history to your jewelry designs with these exceptional Venetian trade beads.
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