A beautiful ritual bead excavated from an ancient Buddhist stupa in the area of Pyu city-states of Burma (present-day Myanmar). Artifact is dated to the 1st millennium AD (circa 200–1000 AD). It has been carefully carved from natural black and white banded agate, accented with subtle light gray, brown and blue tones. Its surface reveals intricate spherical banding and layered lines, creating a distinctive and complex pattern. It features a cylindrical form, gently tapered toward the ends, and a finely polished finish that enhances the stone’s natural beauty. It has been longitudinally perforated, allowing it to be comfortably worn as a pendant. Artifact includes a Certificate of Authenticity document and jewelry cord for suspension. Dimensions: 24.5 mm (L) x 6.2 mm (H) Excellent condition PROVENANCE INFORMATION Acquired by our company in 2024 from Belgian art institute. Previous ownership history: - Local art market Mandalay, Burma * acquired by Dr. Zelnik during a diplomatic mission in 1980. - Prestigious and important collection of Dr. István Zelnik (Dr. István Zelnik is a former highly ranked Hungarian diplomat, researcher, author of more than 30 essays, albums and books about Southeast Asian art and well known collector - the owner of one of the largest private collections of Asian art in Europe with more than 80 000 objects including considered as the one of the most important private collections worldwide of artifacts, jewellery and ritual objects made of gold) - Art institute collection Brussels, Belgium