Rare Antique Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead, 37mm, African Trade

Experience a piece of history with this beautiful, rare, large antique Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade bead. Crafted in Venice in the early 1900s and used in African trade, this bead showcases the intricate mosaic technique for which Venetian artisans are renowned.

• Size: 37mm x 11mm
• Condition: Very good with slight beveling and light chipping at the ends (refer to photos).

This bead is a striking example of Venetian craftsmanship, featuring the signature millefiori (meaning "thousand flowers") design. Such beads were highly valued in African trade, particularly in Ghana, where they were exchanged for gold, ivory, and other goods.

Millefiori beads were painstakingly produced by layering glass canes to create vibrant floral patterns. The technique used to create these mosaic beads required precision and artistry, making each bead a unique work of art. These beads played a significant role in West African trade, serving as symbols of wealth and cultural exchange.

Add this exceptional antique Venetian trade bead to your collection and own a piece of global history.

Explore more of our curated collections:

• Millefiori Mosaic Glass Beads Collection
• Trade Beads Collection
• Sold Millefiori Beads Archives