Antique Large Elbow Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Bead – Rare African Trade Beads

This antique Venetian millefiori elbow mosaic glass trade bead is a rare, striking piece, created in Venice and highly sought after in African trade markets in the early 1900s. Featured in Picard's Volume VI, page 38, bead 693, this bead is a true collector’s item that embodies the rich history and artistry of traditional millefiori glass-making. Its elbow shape and intricate mosaic patterns make it an eye-catching addition to any antique or jewelry collection.

Dimensions:

• Length: 52 mm
• Width: 16 mm

Condition:

• Very Good: Light chipping at the ends (see photos for details).

Millefiori beads, also known as mosaic beads, were meticulously handcrafted in Venice through an elaborate technique involving layers of colored glass canes. These canes were sliced and arranged to form vibrant, intricate patterns, making each bead a miniature work of art. During the height of European-African trade, such Venetian beads were highly valued and widely traded across Ghana and West Africa, symbolizing both wealth and cultural significance. Today, these beads remain cherished as a window into the history of African trade and the rich heritage of Venetian glass artistry.

For more incredible finds, explore our collections:

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