Rare Large Antique Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Trade Bead 28x11mm

This rare, large Venetian millefiori mosaic trade bead is a stunning piece of glass art, crafted in Venice in the early 1900s and treasured in African trade routes. Known for its beautiful array of colors and intricate design, this bead embodies both historical significance and fine Venetian craftsmanship.

Size:

• Length: 28 mm
• Width: 11 mm

Condition:

• Very good - lightly beveled and very lightly chipped at the ends (see photos for detail)

Made using the ancient millefiori ("thousand flowers") technique, these mosaic beads are crafted by layering glass canes to create floral and geometric patterns. Venetian artisans perfected this technique, making each bead a small, unique artwork. These beads were highly valued in African trade, especially in Ghana, where they were symbols of wealth and social status. Trade beads like these are a precious reminder of the interconnected history between Venice and Africa.

Explore more of TribalGH's collection:

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