Antique Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead – 34x8mm African Bead

Add a piece of history to your collection with this exquisite antique Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade bead. Crafted in Venice in the early 1900s, this beautiful old elbow bead showcases the intricate millefiori (“thousand flowers”) technique, where vibrant mosaic patterns create a truly captivating look. Venetian millefiori beads were treasured items in African trade, particularly in Ghana, and continue to be highly sought after by collectors worldwide.

Specifications:

• Size: 34 mm in length x 8 mm in width
• Condition: Very good, with minor chipping on the ends (see photos)

This bead is not just a striking antique but also represents an important era in global trade. Venetian artisans pioneered the intricate art of millefiori, layering colorful glass canes to create a mosaic effect. These beads were transported to West Africa, where they became prized trade items, symbolizing wealth and status within communities, especially in Ghana. Collectors prize these beads for their craftsmanship and cultural significance, making them cherished historical artifacts.

Explore our full collection:

• Current Millefiori Beads Collection
• Antique Trade Beads Collection
• Sold Millefiori Beads Archive