**Originally Listed At $400**

Central Asia, Tibet, ca. 19th century CE. A large example of a deep brown-etched-on-white agate stone dZi bead with a chaotic banded wave form, rounded in cross-section, with a slightly bowed-out shape in the center. It is drilled through laterally. dZi beads are made of agate, with sharply delineated patterns, symmetrical shapes, strong color, and a glossy surface. Ethnographic interviews tell us that in Tibetan culture, genuine dZi beads must also be free from defilement and possess amuletic powers. Size: 4" W x 1.75" H (10.2 cm x 4.4 cm)

19th century Tibetans of every description and social standing wore large quantities of beads, made from the best materials a family could afford. For example, noblewomen wore strands of huge amber and coral beads so long that they almost touched the floor. Size and color were hugely important attributes, even more so than material. Coral, imported from Venice (alongside glass facsimiles as a more affordable option), and native turquoise were some of the most valuable, and served as both jewelry and currency. The only type of bead more precious was the dZi, black-and-white or brown beads made of etched and/or treated agate. These were made into a small variety of shapes with a large variety of patterns and were believed to be of supernatural origin. The patterns on them seem to relate to Tibet’s pre-Buddhist, animist religion. Little is known about them, in part due to Tibetan laws forbidding archaeological investigations on religious grounds. Their age and exact methods of manufacture remain nebulous - many Tibetans believe that they were not made by human hands, for example. The dZi is worn to protect against evil forces.

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#143525

Natural area of loss to one side. Faint scratches and patina on surface.