Rare Antique Venetian Millefiori Mosaic African Trade Beads (10-11mm)

Discover a set of five rare, antique Venetian millefiori mosaic trade beads, a timeless example of Venetian craftsmanship from the early 1900s. These matching beads, featured in Picard’s reference book (Volume VI, page 57, strand 18), are a stunning addition to any collection of African trade beads.

• Bead Size: 10-11 mm x 7 mm

• Condition: Excellent, especially for their age.

These exquisite mosaic beads, also known as millefiori beads, were painstakingly crafted in Venice, Italy, using intricate glassworking techniques. Each bead is composed of multiple layers of colored glass, skillfully fused to create vibrant floral and geometric patterns. These beads were highly valued in the African trade, particularly in regions like Ghana, where they held cultural and economic significance. They served not only as decorative items but also as a form of currency and a medium of storytelling in local traditions.

Whether you are an avid collector or a beadwork enthusiast, these antique Venetian millefiori beads offer a unique opportunity to own a piece of history.

Explore more rare and antique trade beads in our curated collections:

• Millefiori Mosaic Beads Collection
• Old Trade Beads Collection
• Sold Millefiori Beads Archives