Antique Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Trade Beads, African Glass Beads

Add a touch of history to your collection with these five stunning antique Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade beads. Each bead showcases the artistry of Venetian glassmakers, used in the African trade in the early 1900s. These beads are perfect for collectors or artisans looking for rare and authentic pieces.

• Bead size: 10 mm in length and 7 mm in diameter

• Condition: Excellent overall, with one bead lightly chipped (see photos for detail)

Crafted using the intricate millefiori technique, these beads are a testament to Venetian artistry. The process involved layering colored glass rods, cutting them into small cross-sections, and embedding the patterns into a glass base. These beads were highly prized during their time and played a significant role in the African trade, particularly in Ghana, where they were used for adornment and as currency. Today, they remain a vibrant symbol of cross-cultural exchange and historical craftsmanship.

Explore more of TribalGH's collection:

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