Tribalgh
Rare Antique Large Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass African Trade Bead
Rare Antique Large Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass African Trade Bead
Discover the allure of African trade with this rare, antique Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade bead. Carefully crafted in Venice in the early 1900s, this remarkable bead showcases intricate millefiori patterns and a distinctive, colorful design that once held value across West African cultures. Its beauty, historical value, and exceptional craftsmanship make it a true collector's item.
- Size: 36 mm x 11 mm
- Condition: Very good, with light bevelling and minor chipping at the ends, adding to its antique appeal.
Each millefiori bead like this one was created through a meticulous process in Venetian glass-making studios. The term “millefiori,” meaning “thousand flowers” in Italian, reflects the intricate mosaic patterns achieved by fusing and layering multicolored glass canes. The bead-making tradition in Venice produced these vibrant treasures, which then made their way into African trade routes, becoming cherished items of value in Ghana and across Africa. Trade beads, like this one, are not only beautiful artifacts but also vital pieces of cultural exchange and history.
Explore more of our unique Venetian millefiori beads, antique trade beads, and archive collection:
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