Tribalgh
Antique Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Beads – 12mm African Trade Beads
Antique Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Beads – 12mm African Trade Beads
Discover an exquisite set of five antique Venetian Millefiori mosaic glass beads crafted in Venice, Italy, and once treasured in the African trade. These matching millefiori beads radiate the unique artistry of Venetian glasswork, each adorned with delicate floral and geometric patterns created through the intricate mosaic technique.
Bead Size:
- Length: 12 mm
- Diameter: 7-8 mm
Condition:
- Very good condition with slight beveling, showcasing light, natural wear typical of trade beads over a century old.
Dating back to the early 1900s, these antique African trade beads were historically exchanged as valuable goods, making their way from Venice to African shores, where they held significant cultural and monetary value. Venetian artisans created millefiori or "thousand flowers" beads by layering molten glass canes to produce vibrant, colorful floral patterns within each bead. Each piece was carefully crafted and perfected over centuries, with the glassmaking methods passed down through generations.
Embodying centuries of global history and trade, these Venetian mosaic beads are more than jewelry components; they’re a bridge to Africa’s historical trade practices and the artistry of Venetian glassmakers. This collection is ideal for collectors, artisans, and admirers of rare, antique beads.
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