Tribalgh
Very Rare Large Antique Murano Bird Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Trade Bead
Very Rare Large Antique Murano Bird Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Trade Bead
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of this very rare, large Venetian millefiori trade bead, featuring an intricate Murano Bird/Rooster motif. This stunning bead, cataloged in Picard’s Volume VI, p.37, bead 658, showcases the delicate artistry that Venetian glassmakers brought to trade beads in the early 1900s. Millefiori, also known as “thousand flowers,” creates a vivid mosaic that captures the eye and reflects a legacy of both art and cultural exchange.
Bead Dimensions:
- Length: 52 mm
- Diameter: 13 - 15 mm
Condition:
- Very good condition with only light chipping at the ends (visible in photos).
Venetian millefiori beads like this one were crafted using meticulous techniques in Venice, Italy. Each bead starts as a mosaic of colored glass rods, carefully fused and shaped into stunning patterns that endure as symbols of beauty and history. These glass beads, known for their resilience and detailed motifs, became highly valued in African trade, particularly in Ghana and across West Africa, where they continue to hold cultural and artistic significance. Such beads are prized by collectors and artisans alike, cherished for their vibrant designs and storied past.
Discover more rare Venetian millefiori beads in our collections:
Share
