Tribalgh
Rare Large Old Multimurrine Elbow Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Bead
Rare Large Old Multimurrine Elbow Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Bead
This stunning large antique Venetian millefiori glass trade bead is a rare find, featuring an eye-catching elbow shape adorned with intricate multimurrine mosaic patterns. Crafted in Venice in the early 1900s, this bead showcases the remarkable artistry of Venetian glassmakers. Its design, composed of vivid floral and geometric motifs, reflects the expertise and creativity of traditional mosaic techniques, making it a captivating addition to any collection of African trade beads or antique glasswork.
Size:
- Length: 38 mm
- Diameter: 10 mm
Condition:
- Excellent condition with minor chipping at the ends (see photos)
Millefiori beads, also known as mosaic or “thousand flowers” beads, are renowned for their vibrant, intricate designs, created through a specialized technique developed in Venice. Each pattern is meticulously formed by fusing multiple rods of colored glass, a process that requires skill and precision to achieve the bead’s distinct layered effect. Originally crafted in Venice, these beads were highly valued in African trade, especially across West Africa and Ghana, where they held cultural and economic significance, symbolizing wealth, beauty, and heritage.
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