Tribalgh
Antique Banded Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Trade Beads – African Trade
Antique Banded Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Trade Beads – African Trade
Discover the charm of these four beautifully crafted, antique Venetian banded millefiori mosaic glass trade beads, expertly made in Venice in the early 1900s and widely used in the African trade. Each bead boasts intricate bands of vibrant colors, highlighting the meticulous mosaic technique for which Venetian artisans are renowned. These millefiori beads, also known as "thousand flowers," exhibit an impressive history, encapsulating a blend of European artistry and African cultural exchange.
Size:
- Approximately 12 x 11 mm
Condition:
- Excellent condition with very light chipping at the ends
Handcrafted in Venice, these glass beads were produced using the complex millefiori technique, which involved layering and fusing multiple colored glass canes to create intricate floral and geometric patterns. Venetian artisans then sliced these canes to reveal the mosaic designs, creating beautiful, collectible pieces that gained popularity across Africa, particularly in Ghana. Millefiori beads became prized trade items, symbolizing wealth and social status, and remain valuable in African history and cultural heritage.
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