Antique Large Elbow Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead, African Trade

This beautiful, antique large elbow Millefiori Venetian mosaic glass trade bead is a unique piece of African trade history, originating from Venice, Italy, and dating back to the early 1900s. Crafted with the intricate "millefiori" technique, each bead is a one-of-a-kind glass art treasure, displaying vibrant patterns that have captivated collectors and historians alike.

Bead Details:

• Size: 48 x 12 mm
• Condition: Very good condition (see photos)

This Venetian bead showcases the traditional "millefiori" technique, meaning "a thousand flowers," where rods of colored glass are skillfully layered, sliced, and melted to reveal intricate floral patterns in each bead. Originally crafted in Venice, these beads were highly valued in trade, especially in Ghana and across Africa, where they served not only as currency but also held cultural and symbolic significance.

Bring a piece of history into your collection with this striking bead—a testament to the enduring legacy of Venetian craftsmanship and its role in African trade culture.

Explore our collection of these unique historical artifacts and add a piece of history to your collection:

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