Anonymous
Edo 18th 19th century
1615-1868
Ojime
A large group of ojime beads of varying sizes and designs. Ojime beads are used for tightening Japanese sagemono cords, the bead is threaded on to silk cord that would be attached to the sagmono (hanging container) and pulled down to hold the sagemono closed. When pulled up the cord it would slacken the cords allowing the sagemono to be opened. Many different designs would be imagined to match the sagemono or just creative ideas the artist may have.
Ojime in the form a tsuba and fabric knot. Fine inlayed wire and gilding are applied.
Inlaid gold and silver copper in the form of pine cones and maple leaves suggest autumn sentiments.
Ojime in the form of an orange sliced open in inlaid silver to create fruit segments.
Inlaid silver on to bronze bodies of chrysanthemums and peonies and one in the form of a basket.
Huge ojime inlaid with silver and copper butterflies highlighted in gold. This ojime is most likely for a large inro used by actors or sumo wrestler.
Gilt bead adorning a Spiny lobster.
Stunning ojime on iron with the finest inlay of a bird on rice.
Flat inlaid gold and silver motifs on a hammered brass body.
An unusual large solid bronze and gilt ojime in the for a nio (temple Guardian).