Antique Venetian Millefiori African Trade Beads, 21x9mm Pair

Discover this rare matching pair of antique Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade beads, renowned for their vibrant artistry and historical significance. Handcrafted in Venice, these beads were part of the African trade during the early 1900s, embodying both history and craftsmanship.

• Bead Size: 21x9 mm

• Condition: Very good, with light beveling and very minor chips at the ends (refer to photos).

These mosaic beads are made using the intricate millefiori technique, where multiple layers of colored glass are fused together to create stunning floral and geometric patterns. This labor-intensive process highlights the extraordinary skill of Venetian glassmakers.

Venetian trade beads like these played a pivotal role in the African trade, particularly in Ghana and other parts of West Africa, where they were highly valued for their beauty and symbolic meaning. Today, they are cherished by collectors and artisans for their historical and artistic appeal.

Explore more unique antique trade beads in our collections:

• Millefiori Mosaic Glass Beads Collection
• Old Trade Beads Collection
• Archived Millefiori Beads