2ND-1ST MILLENIUM BC

The striking blackish-brown and white markings of the larger bead were cleverly utilized to enhance the hourglass form. Compare two brown and white jade beads dated to the Neolithic period of more slender, less waisted form sold in The Collection of Robert Hatfield Ellsworth, Part III – Chinese Works of Art: Qing Ceramics, Glass and Jade Carvings; Christie’s New York, 19 March 2015, lot 473.