Antique Elbow Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead - 32x9mm

Add a piece of history to your collection with this Antique Elbow Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead. A stunning example of early 20th-century Venetian artistry, this bead boasts intricate mosaic details that showcase the millefiori ("thousand flowers") technique in vibrant colors. Originally crafted in Venice, Italy, this unique elbow-shaped bead found its way to Africa, where such trade beads became a symbol of beauty, wealth, and connection.

Size: Length: 32 mm Width: 9 mm

Condition: Very good condition with very light chipping at the ends (see photos for details).

Created in the early 1900s, these beads were meticulously made using the traditional Venetian millefiori technique. Craftsmen layered and fused rods of colored glass to create beautiful floral and geometric designs in a single bead. This technique, known for its complex and visually captivating style, made Venetian trade beads highly prized items throughout African trade networks, especially in West African countries like Ghana. These beads became cherished heirlooms, valued not only for their aesthetic beauty but also as cultural artifacts that symbolize African heritage and artisanal excellence.

For more unique Venetian millefiori beads, explore our collections:

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