Antique Rare Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead 34x13mm

Add a unique touch of history to your collection with this rare antique Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade bead. Crafted in Venice, Italy, this exquisite bead features vibrant patterns characteristic of mosaic glasswork with a complex design that showcases Venetian artisanship. A fine example of African trade beads, this collectible bead dates back to the early 1900s, preserving a story of global trade and artistry.

Size:

• 34 mm x 13 mm

Condition:

• Very good condition: Lightly beveled and minimally chipped at the ends (see photos).

Each millefiori bead like this was meticulously created using the traditional Venetian mosaic technique. This process, also called "millefiori," involves arranging slender glass canes into patterns, which are then fused and sliced to reveal floral-like designs within each bead. Venetian artisans produced these vibrant beads to cater to global demand, and they quickly became sought-after items in Africa, particularly in Ghana, symbolizing wealth, trade relationships, and cultural exchange.

For more of TribalGH's unique pieces, explore our curated selections:

• Current Millefiori Beads Collection
• Vintage Trade Beads Collection
• Archived Millefiori Beads