Vintage Handmade Christian Prayer Beads with Secret Compartment Pendant – Prison Art, 1980s, Ebonite, 124g

This is a unique and powerful piece of vintage Christian devotional art – a handmade prayer bead necklace crafted in the 1980s by an inmate while serving time in prison. A striking example of prison art, it is both a spiritual object and a work of craftsmanship with deep symbolic meaning.
Details:
Material: Ebonite
Length (with pendant): 38 cm / 15 inches
Weight: 124 grams
Condition: Good vintage condition, no damage or missing parts
Era: 1980s
Origin: Handmade in prison, Eastern Europe
Design & Symbolism:
The necklace is composed of smooth, dark brown prayer beads strung together in a traditional Christian rosary style. At its center hangs a large, solid pendant resembling a medieval tower or column, inscribed with the Latin phrase "Nosce te Ipsum" – Know Thyself – a call to introspection and spiritual awareness.
The pendant is not only symbolic but also functional. It discreetly unscrews, revealing a hidden compartment designed to hold a small scroll, prayer, money, or keepsake – a secret message from within, crafted in confinement.

Story & Craftsmanship:
This piece is an authentic example of prison art, where limited tools and materials become a medium for deep personal expression, hope, and faith. The artisan who created this infused it with religious symbolism, personal struggle, and a need for spiritual grounding.
Whether you're a collector of religious items, vintage curiosities, or unique folk art, this piece is both meaningful and rare.

Shipping:

Worldwide Shipping via Registered Mail with tracking number.
Estimated shipping time: Up to 21 business days.
All additional payments such as taxes are the buyer's responsibility.
Shipping is done only to the approved address registered in the buyer’s account after payment is received.
Handling Time: 3 business days.