Rare Matching Pair of Antique Millefiori Venetian Trade Beads

Rare Matching Pair of Antique Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Beads

This exquisite matching pair of antique Venetian millefiori mosaic trade beads offers a glimpse into the beauty and craftsmanship of the late 1800s to early 1900s. Featured in the renowned "Picard Volume VI," these beads are bead number 21 from the front cover. A truly remarkable addition for collectors of African trade beads or historical artifacts.

• Sizes: 23 mm x 10 mm and 22 mm x 10 mm
• Condition: Very good; lightly beveled edges as shown in the photos

Handcrafted in Venice, Italy, using the intricate millefiori technique, these beads are made by layering colorful glass canes into stunning mosaic patterns, then cutting and shaping them into elegant forms. Their vibrant designs captivated traders and were highly valued in West Africa, especially in Ghana, where they were exchanged for gold, ivory, and other goods. These beads symbolize a rich cultural history and remain iconic artifacts of the African trade era.

Whether you're an avid collector or a lover of antique glasswork, these beads are a timeless piece of history.

Explore more from our curated collections:

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