19th C. Tibetan Agate Dzi Bead w/ 6 Eye Pattern

Central Asia, Tibet, ca. 19th century CE. This is a fine agate dZi (also spelled gzi) bead with a striking white on chocolate brown decorative pattern throughout, comprised of curvilinear lines, circles or eyes, and bands. The barrel shaped bead is hand-drilled laterally through the center for suspension and is fully intact and wearable. The "6 eye" pattern was created by etching the agate, then treating the surfaces with an alkali - such as potash or lead, before being fired, which permanently whitens this area of the bead - sometime the surface was alkali painted without etching, and sometimes the stone was completely whitened then the dark brown and black was added with another chemical. The exact methods of manufacture of dZi beads remain nebulous, and little is known about these beads, in part due to Tibetan laws forbidding archaeological investigations on religious grounds. Ethnographic interviews tell us that in Tibetan culture, genuine dZi beads must also be free from defilement and possess amuletic powers. Size: 1.91" L x 0.5" W (4.9 cm x 1.3 cm)

Many mythological stories serve as explanations of the origin of dZi beads. Some believe that dZi beads adorned the gods in ancient times, who then discarded them when they became blemished, which is why they are so seldom found in perfect condition. Others say that dZi beads were originally worm-like insects that became petrified with some relating that dZi were encountered in the high mountains by someone with especially good karma who managed to catch them, but they became petrified when defiled by human touch. Still, there are more stories of dZi being found in the horns of slaughtered animals or the dung of cattle. Regardless of their origin, the ancient beads are worn to protect their wearer from catastrophe and ward off evil spirits that may cause sickness and death.

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

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#169400
Condition Report: Minor surface nicks and chips to the bead as expected with age and use. Some minor wear and rubbing to drilled opening ends. Bead is otherwise intact and wearable.