Tribalgh
Antique Red Banded Venetian Millefiori Trade Bead 18x11mm
Antique Red Banded Venetian Millefiori Trade Bead 18x11mm
Antique Red Banded Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead – African Trade Bead
This exquisite antique Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade bead features a striking red banded design, crafted with intricate mosaic techniques and rich color patterns. A true gem from the early 1900s, this bead embodies the artistry of Venetian glassmakers and was originally used as a trade bead in African markets, particularly in Ghana and West Africa. Its remarkable color and fine condition make it an extraordinary addition to any collection of antique African trade beads.
- Size: 18 x 11 mm
- Condition: Excellent
The Venetian art of creating millefiori beads is rooted in centuries-old glassmaking traditions, where rods of colored glass are arranged to form intricate floral or geometric patterns. The glass canes are then sliced and embedded within the bead to produce the distinctive “thousand flowers” (millefiori) effect. Highly valued in African trade, these beads were once symbols of wealth and cultural significance, making their way into local marketplaces and becoming integral to various African cultures.
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