Presenting a rare large multimurrine tabular millefiori Venetian trade bead, a stunning example of early 1900s African trade history. This bead features a remarkable mosaic pattern, also known as millefiori, with vibrant colors and detailed craftsmanship. This specific bead can be referenced in Picard, Volume VI, p.32, bead 468.
Size: 38 mm x 19 mm x 10 mm
Condition: Very good with minor chipping at the ends (see photos 2 and 5)
Handmade in Venice, Italy, using the ancient millefiori glass technique, these beads were crafted by fusing multiple layers of colorful glass canes to create intricate floral or geometric patterns. Each bead is a piece of art that reflects the incredible skill of Venetian glassmakers.
Millefiori beads like this one played a significant role in African trade, particularly in regions like Ghana, where they were highly prized. These beads were exchanged for goods and held cultural importance in African societies, symbolizing wealth and status.
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