Rare Antique Murano Bird Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead 32x8mm

Add a rare gem to your collection with this VERY RARE antique Venetian "Murano Bird" millefiori mosaic glass trade bead. This exceptional piece, documented in Picard's Volume VI (p.35, bead 571), exemplifies the artistry of early 1900s Venetian beadmaking. Its unique “Murano Bird” design is a prized and delicate example of Italian craftsmanship, cherished by collectors worldwide.

Bead Size:

• Length: 32 mm
• Diameter: 8 mm

Condition:

• Very good condition with only light chipping on the ends (refer to photos for details).

This rare millefiori bead is crafted using the Venetian mosaic technique, a process that dates back centuries. In Venice, artisans meticulously fused layers of colorful glass canes to form intricate patterns within each bead, creating designs like the iconic "Murano Bird." Such beads were highly valued in African trade, particularly in Ghana and other regions, where they became symbols of wealth, cultural exchange, and artistic appreciation.

Discover more from TribalGH’s curated collections of authentic antique trade beads:

• Current Millefiori Beads Collection
• Antique Trade Beads Collection
• Sold Millefiori Beads Archive