Tribalgh
Rare Antique Venetian Elbow Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead, 38 x 12 mm
Rare Antique Venetian Elbow Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead, 38 x 12 mm
This rare antique Venetian Elbow Millefiori mosaic glass trade bead showcases the stunning craftsmanship of early 20th-century Venetian artisans. This 38 x 12 mm mosaic bead is crafted with intricate millefiori ("thousand flowers") glasswork that catches the eye with its vivid colors and delicate patterns. Originally made in Venice, Italy, these beads became highly prized across African trade routes, symbolizing wealth and status.
An authentic piece of history, this bead displays only minor wear, with light chipping at one end (visible in photo 1), preserving the beauty and integrity of its unique mosaic design.
Size:
- Length: 38 mm
- Width: 12 mm
Condition:
- Very good, with light chipping at one end
Crafted using the Venetian millefiori technique, this bead exemplifies the skill of Venetian glassmakers who layered and arranged colored glass canes to create intricate floral and geometric patterns. These beads played a significant role in African trade, especially in regions like Ghana, where they were valued as symbols of prestige and exchanged for goods. The distinct elbow shape further enhances its uniqueness and appeal to collectors.
Explore more from TribalGH's collections to add a piece of African trade history to your own:
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