Rare Antique Large Elbow Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass Trade Bead, 50x15mm

This exquisite, rare Venetian millefiori elbow trade bead is a stunning example of early 1900s African trade beads, known for its complex multimurrine and trail decoration design. As detailed in Picard's Volume VI (p.37, bead 668), this bead is a piece of history, showcasing traditional Venetian craftsmanship in its vibrant, mosaic patterns and unique curved form.

The glasswork in this bead features multiple colorful murrine patterns, meticulously crafted to form the iconic “mosaic” effect unique to millefiori beads. The bead has an intricate trail decoration along its length, adding an extra dimension to its historical and aesthetic appeal.

Size: Length: 50 mm Width: 15 mm Condition: Very Good Condition – one hairline crack that does not compromise the strength or integrity of the bead (see photos for details).

Venetian millefiori beads like this one were highly prized in African trade, particularly across regions of Ghana and West Africa, where they held cultural significance and were often used as symbols of wealth, trade, and heritage. These beads were crafted using a complex layering of colored glass rods, which were then fused, sliced, and shaped to create vibrant, unique patterns that resemble blooming flowers—hence the name millefiori, or “a thousand flowers.”

Discover more exquisite antique trade beads in our collection, and delve into the cultural impact these treasures had across Africa:

• Millefiori Beads Collection
• Old Trade Beads Collection
• Archived Millefiori Beads