Rare Antique Venetian Millefiori Glass Trade Beads - African Mosaic Beads, 16-17mm

Discover the allure of rare antique Venetian Millefiori glass trade beads from the early 1900s, used historically across African trade routes. This set features three stunning and matching mosaic beads, each showcasing the intricate beauty of Venetian craftsmanship with molded murrine and delicate trail decoration. Perfectly matched in color and design, these mosaic beads are a rare find, highly prized by collectors.

• Bead Sizes: 16-17 mm x 10 mm
• Condition: Very good (lightly beveled with minimal chipping on the ends; please refer to photos)

Each bead in this set exemplifies the timeless millefiori technique, a Venetian glassmaking art where glass canes are layered to create vibrant floral patterns, or “millefiori,” meaning “a thousand flowers.” Created in Venice, Italy, these beads traveled along trade routes to West Africa, where they became integral to social customs, trade, and adornment, especially in Ghana.

For collectors and enthusiasts alike, these beads provide a unique glimpse into history, capturing the cultural exchanges that Venetian beads enabled across continents. They are cherished symbols of both artistry and the resilience of global trade.

Explore more in our collection:

• Millefiori Mosaic Glass Beads Collection
• Old Trade Beads Collection
• Sold Millefiori Beads Archives