Vintage Chinese hand carved hedaio olive pit bead depicting a leaping rabbit.33.5x18mm. b7-wo364

We were thrilled to find these exceedingly rare hand carved Hedaio beads.. These are early to mid 20th century elaborate and finely carved beads.  Each bead is individually hand-carved with a unique design featuring a leaping rabbit among flowers and foliage. While they share common design elements, each bead is distinct. The beads measure 33.5mm x 16-19mm wide.  Sold individually

Hedaio is the traditional Chinese art of miniature carving using natural materials like fruit pits, nuts, or stones, including olive pits, peach stones, and walnuts. The miniature folk art of fruit pit carving has been practiced in China for centuries These finely detailed antique or vintage Hedaio beads are viewed as miniature works of folk art. Due to the labor-intensive process and specialized skills required, intricately carved pieces are increasingly rare.