Rare Antique Venetian Elbow Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead, 42x8mm

This rare, antique Venetian elbow millefiori mosaic glass trade bead is a stunning example of early 1900s craftsmanship, originating from Venice and made for the African trade. Known for its intricate patterns and vibrant colorwork, this bead adds historical significance and exceptional beauty to any collection.

Bead Details:

• Size: 42mm in length, 8mm in width
• Condition: Very good with minor chipping at the ends (see photos)

Handcrafted using the traditional millefiori (Italian for "thousand flowers") technique, each bead boasts unique, colorful mosaics created by layering and fusing glass rods. Venetian artisans perfected this mosaic technique to create beads that became widely cherished across West Africa, particularly in Ghana, where these trade beads symbolized wealth and social status. Today, they remain highly collectible and offer a glimpse into the historic trade relationships between Europe and Africa.

Explore more antique millefiori beads and rare glass pieces in our collections:

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