Introducing a stunning piece of history, this rare tabular Venetian millefiori mosaic glass trade bead embodies the elegance and skilled craftsmanship of early 1900s Venetian artisans. Known for their intricate patterns and bold colors, these African trade beads were highly valued across trade routes in Africa and beyond, each carrying both beauty and cultural significance.
Size: 22 x 20 x 9 mm
Condition: Very good, with a minor hairline crack that does not impact the bead’s strength or integrity (see photos for detail)
Handcrafted in Venice, Italy, this mosaic millefiori bead was meticulously formed through the “thousand flowers” technique, where vibrant glass canes are fused together, sliced, and polished to create a truly unique piece. These beads played a pivotal role in African trade, especially in Ghana and across West Africa, serving as symbols of wealth, cultural exchange, and artistry. Millefiori beads are a testament to the enduring beauty and significance of Venetian glassmaking, cherished both for their aesthetic and historic value.
Explore more of TribalGH’s antique Venetian bead collections here:
