Ojime

An ojime (緒締め, lit. "cord fastener") is a bead used in Japanese inrō (carrying cases). It is typically under an inch in length. Each is carved into a particular shape and image, similar to the netsuke, though smaller. It is used to fasten the cord of the inrō so that it does not unstack while carried.

A Japanese 19th-century mixed metal ojime bead

Inro, ojime and netsuke. Lacquer inro, stained ivory ojime and wooden netsuke; inro features a reclining figure in a boat; netsuke is in the form of a mask, by Ikkan (ca. 1750-1850)

The history of ojime beads dates back to the Edo period (1603–1868). Ojime beads, netsuke, and sagemono or inrō cases would be items worn on a traditional kimono, typically hanging from the belt.

Images

• 
  A Meiji gilt bronze pearl-inlaid ojime
• 
  Ojime at the Honolulu Museum of Art

See also

• Inrō
• Netsuke
• Okimono

External links

Media related to Ojime at Wikimedia Commons