Green enamel bead, Warring States Period

A slightly flattened bead of vitreous paste with coloured glaze, also known as ‘琉璃’ (Liúlí). The decoration is composed of small concentric dots, lines and circles resembling small eyes, all set against a vibrant green background. The centre is pierced with a hole through which a cord can be added to form a pendant.

This type of coloured enamel is considered to be a precious stone and was used to make jewellery for nobles and emperors. With patina due to antiquity. Warring States period (403–222 BC) or later.

Size: 1.9 x 2.7 x 2.6 cm

Weight: 18 g