Comma or Kidney Shaped Bead (Magatama), 1 of 2
400 B.C.E. – 600 C.E.
Object Label
Magatama are comma-shaped beads that were worn by the upper classes of ancient Japan, possibly for protective as well as decorative purposes. The inspiration for the shape is unclear: it might imitate an animal claw or tooth, or it might be a stylized representation of a fetus. Similar beads are found in the tombs of social elites in Korea, illustrating strong ties between the ancient peoples of the two regions.
Caption
Comma or Kidney Shaped Bead (Magatama), 1 of 2, 400 B.C.E. – 600 C.E.. Stone, 7/16 x 1 1/4 x 15/16 in. (1.1 x 3.1 x 2.4 cm). Brooklyn Museum, 09.898.4.
Collection
Collection
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