Rare Antique Banded Millefiori Venetian Glass Trade Beads – 16-17mm

These four rare, matching antique Venetian banded millefiori mosaic glass trade beads are a stunning find for collectors and artisans alike. Crafted in Venice, these beads date back to the early 1900s and were once part of African trade. Each bead showcases the timeless beauty of Venetian glass artistry with colorful banded designs unique to the millefiori (or "thousand flowers") technique, offering a mosaic-like effect that captivates the eye.

• Size: 16-17 mm in length, 11 mm in diameter
• Condition: Very good; very light chipping at the ends (see photos)

Crafted using the Millefiori Technique: Venetian millefiori beads are made by layering glass rods of various colors into intricate, flower-like designs. The rods are sliced and carefully inlaid to form a mosaic pattern, creating an artistic effect that is both vibrant and enduring. These beads were highly prized in African trade, especially in regions like Ghana, where they were symbols of wealth and social status. The cross-cultural exchange of these beads reflects a rich history of trade and artistry that spans continents.

Explore our collections to find more unique pieces:

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