Antique Banded Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass African Trade Beads

Step back in time with these antique banded Venetian Millefiori mosaic glass trade beads, a stunning piece of history from the early 1900s. These handcrafted African trade beads boast vibrant mosaic patterns, expertly crafted in Venice and widely used in trade across Africa, particularly in Ghana. Each bead is adorned with intricate designs, showcasing the centuries-old Millefiori technique where multiple layers of colored glass rods are fused and sliced to create beautiful floral and geometric patterns. Size:

• Bead Length: 13-14 mm
• Bead Diameter: Approx. 8 mm

Condition:

• Very good condition
• Lightly beveled edges
• Minor, light chipping at the ends

These beads are an authentic representation of the Venetian Millefiori beadmaking process, where each piece is meticulously handcrafted to form the iconic floral and geometric patterns known as "mosaic." The beads were a vital part of the African trade, particularly in West Africa and Ghana, where they were exchanged as currency and valued as cultural symbols of wealth and status. Explore more of our unique collections:

• Millefiori Mosaic Glass Beads Collection
• Old Trade Beads Collection
• Sold Millefiori Beads Archive