Rare Large Antique Millefiori Mosaic Venetian Trade Bead, African Origin

Experience the timeless beauty of this rare antique Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade bead, crafted in Venice during the early 1900s. Highly prized for its intricate design and vibrant colors, this exceptional bead was used extensively in the African trade, reflecting its rich history and cultural significance.

Dimensions:

• Length: 27 mm
• Diameter: 10 mm

Condition:

• Excellent: Well-preserved with no visible damage.

Venetian millefiori beads, also known as mosaic beads, were created using a meticulous glassmaking technique. Artisans in Venice combined layers of colored glass rods to form intricate patterns, cutting them into sections and shaping them into beads. These stunning creations were then traded across Africa, particularly in Ghana, where they played a pivotal role in cultural exchanges and traditional ceremonies.

Today, such beads are treasured not only for their artistic and historic value but also for their role in preserving a legacy of craftsmanship and cross-cultural trade.

Explore more rare finds from our collection:

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