Black and white agate ‘Dzi’ bead, Ming dynasty

Slightly curved on one side, elongated with rounded edges, narrower at the ends, and with a central hole through which a cord can be passed. It has a dark, black or brownish colour, which serves as a base for the white decorations, with geometric lines and a small central triangle. 

Such objects were used as part of traditional Buddhist ornaments and elements. It shows a generalized patina caused by the passage of time. Ming Dynasty (1368 - 1644) or later.

Size: 1.9 x 1.5 x 7 cm

Weight: 26 g