Rare Antique Elbow Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Trade Bead - African Trade Bead

This rare Venetian elbow millefiori trade bead showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of early 1900s Venetian glassmaking. Made with the renowned millefiori, or "thousand flowers" technique, this bead features intricate mosaic patterns that exemplify the artistry of historic African trade beads. Originally crafted in Venice, Italy, this piece is a testament to the exchange between Europe and Africa that thrived through the bead trade.

Dimensions:

• Length: 31 mm
• Width: 10 mm

Condition:

• Very good (showing expected signs of age with minimal wear from historical use in African trade)

These antique millefiori beads, or "mosaic beads," are handmade using a specialized glass layering technique, producing vivid patterns by merging glass rods, which are then sliced to reveal striking floral and geometric designs. Venetian glassmakers perfected this technique, creating unique pieces that became highly desired in West Africa, where they were traded as symbols of wealth and prestige. Their role in African trade, especially in Ghana, reflects a fascinating history of cultural exchange that these beads represent.

Explore more of TribalGH’s authentic collections here:

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