Tribalgh
Rare Antique Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Trade Beads – 14mm African Glass Beads
Rare Antique Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Trade Beads – 14mm African Glass Beads
These four stunning, rare antique Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade beads showcase the masterful artistry of early 1900s Venetian craftsmanship, cherished across generations and continents. Originally crafted in Venice, Italy, these beads were part of the African trade and continue to captivate collectors and artisans worldwide.
Each bead is a brilliant example of the millefiori technique, known for its intricate floral patterns that create a mesmerizing mosaic of color. These beads have a unique patina and delicate signs of age, adding to their allure as genuine pieces of history.
Length: 14 mm
Condition: Very good (lightly beveled with very minor end chipping; see photos for details)
Handcrafted using the renowned Venetian millefiori (meaning "thousand flowers") technique, these beads involved layering glass canes to produce elaborate patterns—a skill perfected in Venice. Once produced, they became part of the African trade, especially in Ghana and other parts of West Africa, where they were exchanged for goods and became highly valued for their vibrant patterns and quality.
Each bead carries its own story, passed down through generations and across cultures, making them a remarkable find for bead collectors and jewelry designers alike.
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