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Antique Venetian Millefiori Glass Trade Beads, African Mosaic Beads 12-13mm
Antique Venetian Millefiori Glass Trade Beads, African Mosaic Beads 12-13mm
Explore the beauty and intricate craftsmanship of these antique Venetian millefiori trade beads. These rare, handcrafted beads showcase an exquisite blend of murrine and trail decoration, with vibrant mosaic patterns that reveal the skilled artistry of Venetian glassmakers. Originally created for the African trade market in the early 1900s, these beads carry a legacy of cultural exchange and artistry that make them highly desirable for collectors.
Bead Size:
- Length: 12-13 mm
- Width: 9 mm
Condition:
- Very good vintage condition: Light beveling and minor chips on the ends, a typical feature of authentic antique trade beads.
Each bead tells a story of its journey from the glass furnaces of Venice to the bustling trade routes of Africa. The millefiori technique, meaning "thousand flowers" in Italian, involves layering colored glass rods to form floral patterns, which are then cut into sections and molded into beads. This mosaic craftsmanship results in the vibrant, detailed designs cherished worldwide.
Venetian trade beads, like these, played an integral role in West African history, especially in Ghana, where they were prized as symbols of wealth, status, and cultural heritage. Known widely as "African trade beads," they remain treasured heirlooms, celebrated for their beauty and historical significance.
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