Antique Large Banded Millefiori Venetian Mosaic Glass Trade Bead – African Trade Beads

Beautiful OLD rare large BANDED millefiori Venetian mosaic glass trade bead

This exquisite antique Venetian millefiori bead is a rare and valuable piece, originating from the early 1900s. Featuring vibrant and intricate banded mosaic patterns, it was skillfully crafted using traditional techniques in Venice, Italy. Millefiori beads like this were highly sought after for trade, especially in Africa, where they became symbols of wealth and cultural exchange.

• Size: 31 x 12 mm
• Condition: Very good with very light chipping at the ends (see photos)

The millefiori technique, meaning "thousand flowers" in Italian, involves layering colored glass canes and then slicing them to reveal beautiful floral and geometric patterns. This Venetian artistry made these beads highly prized in African markets, particularly in Ghana, where they were used as trade currency and symbols of status and heritage. The enduring beauty of these beads continues to captivate collectors and bead enthusiasts around the world.

Discover more unique Venetian trade beads in our collections:

• Millefiori Beads Collection
• Old Trade Beads Collection
• Sold Millefiori Beads Archive