Pendant #2-32               

Sterling silver, 24k gold Keum-boo and pearls.  A colorful patina is applied to the sterling. This butterfly box pendant was my approach to the Japanese Inro, which were containers worn on the sash (Obi) of the kimono.  The Inro were two pieces or more, opened by sliding the sections or lids upward on the chain or cord.  A bead above the lid held the lid down in the closed position and was referred to as the Ojime.  At the end of the cord, a fob or toggle secured the Inro’s cord as it passed under and over the sash of the kimono.  This was called the Netsuke.  This piece has a snake chain which adjusted by sliding the two dragonfly beads up and down on the chain.  The box measures 3” tall x 2” wide x 3/4” deep.  Both sides are the same. The patterns were roller embossed from my original etched brass plates.  Sold.