Menuki are small ornamental pieces that used to be made as part of a sword handle as embellishment. They are usually made with either silver or a mix of silver and gold (shakudo) and are beautiful miniature works of art. I am fortunate to have two pieces: this pendant, and this bracelet.
This bracelet is offered by Robyn Buntin; it sells for USD$4800.
IntoTemptation.....jewellery musings 
That is a nice piece and your two pieces are lovely. Menuki is often breathtaking and usually have a wonderful tactile quality.
I really love how something that no longer served its original purpose was used in a way that really emphasized its fine, decorative nature.