Rare Antique Peacock Millefiori Venetian Glass African Trade Beads

Discover a set of five rare, old Peacock Millefiori Venetian mosaic glass trade beads, a stunning example of early 1900s African trade beads. These antique beads showcase intricate patterns and vibrant colors, a hallmark of Venetian craftsmanship. Each bead was meticulously crafted using the famous Millefiori technique, giving them the intricate "peacock eye" design.

• Bead Size: 14-15 mm in length
• Diameter: 9 mm
• Condition: Very good (lightly beveled and very lightly chipped at the ends, see photos)

These antique glass trade beads were created in Venice, Italy, and widely traded across Africa, especially in Ghana. Millefiori, meaning “thousand flowers,” refers to the complex process used to produce these vibrant beads. Artisans layered molten glass, cut it into delicate cross-sections, and fused it into mosaic patterns, resulting in unique works of art.

The Peacock Millefiori beads were not only decorative but also carried significant cultural value in African trade, symbolizing wealth and status. Highly sought after by collectors today, these beads represent a rich history of exchange between Europe and Africa, particularly in Ghana, where they became integral to local trade networks.

Explore more of our stunning collections here:

• Millefiori Mosaic Glass Beads Collection
• Trade Beads Collection
• Sold Millefiori Beads Archive