bracelet skulls, skull, death's heads. Representation of the 18 arhats (disciples of Buddha)

18 dimension skulls: 15mm high by 12mm wide by 10mm deep

entirely carved by hand in deer antler according to the Japanese tradition of making netsuke. Deer antler is of course harvested at fall once a year in the spring.

Strap size: 21.6 cm long by 12mm wide.

A netsuke is a miniature sculpture, originating in 17th century Japan. Initially a simply carved button closure on the cords of an inro box, netsuke later developed into ornately carved handicrafts. Traditionally, Japanese clothing - the kosode and its later evolution, the kimono - had no pockets. Although the sleeves of the kimono could be used to store small items, the men who wore the kimono needed a larger, sturdier container in which to store their belongings, such as pipes, tobacco, silver and seals, which resulted in the development of containers known as sagemono, which were hung by cords from the sashes of robes (obi). Today netsuke production continues and some modern netsuke can fetch high prices in the UK, Europe, USA, Japan and elsewhere Rare and unique piece. Rare piece, Fine and delicate work. adjustable thanks to a sliding knot located below the finishing skull.