Tribalgh
Rare Antique Elbow Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Bead - 35x13mm
Rare Antique Elbow Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Bead - 35x13mm
Discover a truly rare antique Venetian elbow millefiori mosaic glass trade bead crafted with remarkable skill and vibrant detail. This collectible bead, renowned for its intricate pattern and unique shape, captures the essence of Venice's historic glasswork and its far-reaching impact on African trade and culture.
Specifications:
- Size: 35 mm x 13 mm
- Condition: Very good; this bead has withstood the test of time and retains its vivid colors and fine detailing, making it a prized piece for collectors.
This authentic Venetian millefiori bead dates back to the early 1900s, embodying a distinct mosaic design that exemplifies Venetian artisans’ advanced glassworking techniques. Millefiori, meaning "a thousand flowers," refers to the iconic patterns that make these beads so visually captivating. Artisans in Venice meticulously crafted each bead by layering colorful canes of glass, which were then sliced to reveal unique floral-like motifs. This labor-intensive process created each bead as a miniature work of art.
Venetian millefiori beads, also known as mosaic beads, were originally created for trade purposes, particularly across West Africa. These beads became especially significant in Ghana and other African regions, where they were not only valued as trade currency but also adopted into the cultural traditions and jewelry of the region. Today, they hold a meaningful place in both African history and global bead collecting.
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