Two-coloured agate ‘Dzi’ bead, Qing dynasty

Agate carved in the shape of a sheath, elongated with rounded edges, slightly wider in the centre. It has a central hole through which a cord can be attached. It is made in two colours, brown with lines and scrolls on a white background. 

This type of object was used as part of traditional Buddhist ornaments and elements. It shows a generalized patina caused by the passage of time. Qing dynasty (1644-1912) or later. 

Length: 11.5 cm, Diameter: 3.6 cm