Very Rare Large Antique Murano Bird Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Trade Bead – 51x15mm

Introducing an exceptionally rare piece for collectors: a stunning, large Murano "Bird" (Rooster) Venetian millefiori glass trade bead. With its unique mosaic pattern and beautifully preserved details, this bead showcases the intricate artistry and remarkable craftsmanship that made Venetian beads so prized. This rare elbow bead is featured in Picard's reference book (Volume VI, p.37, bead 658), underscoring its collectible value. Perfect for antique bead collectors and lovers of African trade bead history alike.

Specifications:

• Size: 51mm x 15mm
• Condition: Very good, with very light chipping at the ends (see photos)

These antique Venetian millefiori beads, crafted in early 1900s Venice, were prized trade items that journeyed across oceans to reach African markets. Each bead is carefully made using the millefiori technique, where artisans in Venice arranged and fused layers of colored glass rods to create the vibrant mosaic designs that earned these beads the name "mosaic beads." These glass masterpieces became essential in trade, especially in West Africa, where they were exchanged as valuable goods and still hold cultural and historical significance.

For more unique millefiori beads, explore our full collection:

• Current Millefiori Beads Collection
• Old Trade Beads Collection
• Archives of Sold Millefiori Beads