A natural banded agate rat bead talisman - symbol of intelligence, adaptability and fertility from the ancient Chinese culture. Qing Dynasty . In good condition. It has been cleaned by in a tumbler and repolished, so it surface is smooth, but the nice antique patina is preserved. Original, ancient, hand cutting, carving and boring. The holes are ancient, hand-made, irregular, funnel shaped. Traces of use and age on its surface. Purchased mid 90's in Budapest from the collection of a former ambassador in China, H.E.N.I Important information : The seller guarantees that he is entitled to ship this lot. Due to the complicated Cultural Laws we will not be able to ship this item outside of the EU nor to the United States. Provenance : This item comes from the collection of Dr. István Zelnik, resulting from more than 50 years of collecting. Former diplomat, Asian Art collector, Researcher. Publications : More than 20 essays on Southeast Asian politics and economy. Co-author of 10 albums and books on Southeast Asian Art.