Experience the charm of these four beautiful antique blue-banded Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade beads, crafted with exquisite skill in early 1900s Venice and used extensively in African trade. These captivating beads reflect the artistry of Italian glassmakers and the vibrant cultural exchange of the trade routes.
Sizes:
Diameter: 15-16 mm
Width: 9 mm
Condition:
Very good condition: Slight chipping at the ends, as shown in photos, adding to their antique authenticity.
The millefiori technique, meaning "a thousand flowers," was a hallmark of Venetian glassmaking. Intricate floral patterns were achieved by slicing colorful glass canes and layering them to create a mosaic effect. Venetian trade beads like these were highly valued in West Africa, including Ghana, serving as currency and symbols of wealth and status in trade exchanges.
