Rare Large Antique Multimurrine Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Bead - African Trade Beads

This rare and beautiful antique Multimurrine Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade bead is a remarkable piece of history, originating from the early 1900s. Crafted in Venice and once traded in Africa, this bead’s vibrant and intricate mosaic pattern is a stunning example of Italian glasswork artistry. Millefiori beads like this were highly valued and symbolized wealth and status in African societies.

Specifications:

• Size: 45 x 13 mm
• Condition: Very good – light beveling and very light chipping at the ends (see photos for detail).

This exquisite bead, referenced in Picard, Volume VI, p.54, bead 1424, displays a beautiful multimurrine pattern, where multiple layers of colored glass are combined to create mesmerizing floral and geometric designs. Venetian millefiori beads are crafted using a technique known as "millefiori," meaning "a thousand flowers," where glass rods are fused and cross-cut to form mosaic patterns that are both durable and colorful. These beads became essential trade items, especially across West Africa, including Ghana, where they played a central role in social and cultural exchanges, symbolizing wealth, status, and shared artistic heritage.

For more unique antique Venetian millefiori beads, visit our collections:

• Current Millefiori Beads Collection
• Trade Beads Collection
• Archives of Sold Millefiori Beads