Two-color agate “Dzi” bead, Tang dynasty

Agate carved in the shape of a pod, elongated with rounded edges, slightly wider in the centre. It has a central hole through which a cord can be threaded. It is two-coloured, with brown Buddhist symbols on a white background.

These types of objects were used as part of traditional Buddhist elements and ornaments. It shows generalised patina produced by the passage of time. Tang Dynasty (618-906) or later.

Length: 11.5 cm; Diameter: 3.6 cm