UP FOR SALE: Vintage Japanese ojime bead depicting the Zodiac Ram (Sheep), hand-carvedin the early?mid Showa era (1930s?1950s). This is one of the most detailed and expressive pieces in the group, with deep carved wool texture, rounded zodiac posture, and a crisp hand-inscribed two-kanji artisan signature. The bead displays a gorgeous natural patina with darkened recesses that only form on older beads. Crafted using traditional laminated construction, a technique used by skilled Japanese ojime workshops of the period to create strong, smoothly rounded bases before carving. The Ram is a sought-after zodiac symbol associated with peace, intuition, creativity, and good fortune ? and this example has exceptional presence and age character. Approx size: ~1 inch Type: Ojime bead (listed under Netsuke category) Zodiac Animal: Ram / Sheep Signed: Yes Origin: Japan Era: Early?Mid Showa (circa 1930s?50s) Condition: Beautiful vintage patina, no cracks, no repairs A truly standout collector piece ? signed mid-century bone zodiac ojime are highly desirable and increasingly scarce, especially in this condition. I?m listing several other signed mid-century Japanese zodiac ojime from the same workshop. If you collect these, check my other listings ? they?re all different animals and all hand-carved bone. AS IS AS SHOWN ? Please check out all the pics and zoom in for the best look. Photos tell the story better than I ever could! Thanks so much for looking! Vintage and secondhand goodies usually have some character (aka flaws). I do my best to describe everything honestly, but I?m no expert. What you see is what you get. All my stuff comes from a smoke-free home and gets a good cleaning before it heads out. I ship Monday through Saturday fast and packed with care! Colors might look a little different depending on your screen and lighting. Props are just for show -- only the item(s) listed in the title are included. Got a problem? Message me first! I'm easy to work with and want you to be happy! Poke around my store if you want, I am happy to bundle shipping! Visit my Store for more great finds!