VERY RARE ANTIQUE BEAD FROM THE IMPERIAL COURT C.1850

For many years, we supplied art galleries with ancient and ethnographic jewelry and components. At that time, we had perhaps the world's largest stock. Now we are clearing out our stock and have prepared this listing of what we have to offer. Most of these were purchased in the 1960-80's and have been off the market for years. These are some of the rarest beads on the market anywhere. Many are available in multiple units.Just under 1/2" and hand carved from a prune pit. See Collectible beads (Liu) page 69 for identical beads from China's Imperial Court, purchased near the forbuyden city where vast amounts of royal treasure were housed and much was sold in the mid 19th century by unscrupulous courtiers. We have 25 beads and other than the Liu necklace, have never seen another. Price per bead.BD52