Rare Antique Elbow Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Bead 46x12mm

Explore the beauty and rarity of this antique Venetian elbow millefiori mosaic glass trade bead, a collector's treasure with a legacy rooted in African trade. Handcrafted in Venice in the early 1900s, this stunning bead is a testament to traditional Italian glassmaking techniques, made with precision and artistry.

This unique elbow-shaped bead showcases the intricate millefiori (thousand flowers) mosaic style, known for its vibrant and elaborate floral patterns encased in durable glass. Venetian artisans mastered this process, layering molten glass rods to create these colorful, resilient designs, which were then sliced and carefully polished to reveal their vivid patterns.

Bead Size:

• Length: 46 mm
• Width: 12 mm

Condition:

• Very Good Condition - Preserved with care, exhibiting minimal wear despite its age, a remarkable find for collectors.

Historical Significance:
Venetian millefiori beads like this one played a vital role in trade with Africa, especially in West Africa and Ghana. Highly valued for their beauty, they became symbols of status, wealth, and cultural exchange. Each bead tells a story of the vibrant connections forged between continents, making it a timeless piece for any collection.

Enhance your collection with this remarkable example of Venetian craftsmanship, celebrated for its role in Africa’s historic trade networks.

Explore more:

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