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Rare Antique Red Oval Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Trade Beads, 13-14mm
Rare Antique Red Oval Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Trade Beads, 13-14mm
Discover the beauty of rare, antique red oval Venetian millefiori mosaic glass beads crafted in Venice in the early 1900s. These exquisite mosaic beads, historically traded throughout Africa, feature an alluring red hue and a unique oval shape, showcasing a vibrant millefiori pattern that’s stood the test of time. Each bead’s design embodies Venetian artistry, offering collectors a timeless piece with both cultural and artistic significance.
Bead Details:
- Size: 13-14 mm x 10 mm
- Shape: Oval
- Condition: Very good (lightly beveled edges; see photos)
Venetian millefiori beads like these were created using a glassmaking technique known as "millefiori," meaning “a thousand flowers.” This intricate process involved layering rods of colored glass to create intricate floral and mosaic patterns. These beads traveled from Venice to West Africa, where they were prized for their beauty and used as trade beads. Such beads have played a remarkable role in the history of African trade and adornment, particularly in Ghana, where they remain symbols of prestige and cultural exchange.
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