Rare Antique African Trade Beads – Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass, 16mm
Rare Antique African Trade Beads – Venetian Millefiori Mosaic Glass, 16mm
Presenting three stunning and rare Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade beads, crafted in the early 1900s and used extensively in the African trade. These exquisite beads were hand-made in Venice, Italy, and are renowned for their intricate floral patterns, a hallmark of the millefiori technique.
- Size: 16 mm in length
- Condition: Very good (beveled), showing minimal signs of wear considering their age and history
Millefiori beads, also known as mosaic beads, were meticulously crafted by fusing layers of colored glass rods into intricate patterns. Venetian artisans developed this technique in the 19th century, making these beads prized for their beauty and craftsmanship. Highly sought after, these beads traveled across trade routes and became an important currency in African regions, especially in Ghana, where they were used in ceremonial and everyday contexts.
These beads are a beautiful reflection of history, making them a perfect addition to any collection of antique African trade beads or Venetian glassware.
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