From our Southeast Asia Collection, a small but fine Burmese ink on palm leaf sutra with thayo embossed wood covers, depicting Buddha under the Bodhi Tree of Enlightenment flanked by two adorants in the center medallion, then encircled by disciples and zoomorphic entities in the surrounding images. The reverse side contains sutra writings in Burmese script, not yet translated...

This remarkable tea bowl is from the kilns of Yoshida Shuen (1940-1987)—an apprentice of Miwa Kyusetsu (1910-2012) who was awarded the status of Living National Treasure in 1983. It features a warm crackled glazing with a white translucent overcoat that beads in areas.

Hagi-yaki has a tradition stretching back over 400 years and is a high-fired stoneware type of pottery...

A framed etching and aquatint print by Tanaka Ryohei. Scene of a thatched rooftop with a large flock of birds flying and trees branching out from behind the house. Signed in pencil and numbered 19/120. Dated 1994.

Framed: 22.75" high x 26.25" wide

Size of artwork: 13.5" high x 17" wide

This is a beautiful dark blue Japanese Uchikake (wedding gown) made in Nishijin, Kyoto. The label states the name of Nishijin and the use of pure gold. The gown is woven with fans and Gosho (palace) flower carts which is one of the favorite motifs used for Japanese wedding gowns. They are remainders of the Heian period (794-1192) which was the last graceful era of the aristocrats. The gown is meticulously hand sewn to perfection as most Japanese kimonos are...

1976 Constock German Silver Cowboy Beltbuckle,in excellent condition. W:4"x3"

A rare Cultural Revolution era wood carving depicting a girl dancer holding a lantern, probably from a People's Liberation Army Ballet or possibly from a Beijing Opera performance of the same period, circa 1966-1976. Condition - the lantern handle has been broken and there is a piece missing; no further damage and no restoration...

Rare Framed Calligraphy by the Last Korean Princess, Yi Bangja (1901 - 1989). A beautiful piece of Korean history created by the last member of the royal household to reside in Korea's royal palace. Princess Yi Bangja is much beloved by the Korean people. She devoted her entire life to the education of mentally and physically handicapped people, and worked tirelessly to support them...

A boxed set of six pewter decanter labels or bottle tags for Scotch, bourbon, gin, vodka, brandy and sherry by Stieff for Historic Newport. Newport, RI was one of the most important pewter-making cities of Colonial America, and these tags are made according the 18th century models.

• Origin: America, ca. 1976.
• Condition: tags are excellent; box shows significant wear.
• Dimensions: tags, 2-5/8 x 1-1/4" (excluding chains).

Kokeshi, folk toy of NE Japan. Wood, height 9.625". This is a Yajiro-kei (Yajiro-classification) kokeshi, generally crafted in the vicinity of Shiroishi City in southern Miyagi Prefecture. However, this particular craftsman, Sato Seikou (?), lives in the next prefecture of Fukushima, on the coast in Iwaki City. He was born on February 22, Showa 22 (1947). This kokeshi probably dates from ca. 1980.

The Steuben owl was designed in 1955 by Donald Pollard. It is still being made today. It is 5" tall, and is in perfect condition. It is Steuben number 8065W.

Highlighting our trip back to the years of change in the sixties and seventies is this masterpiece by Miyashita Zenji exhibited in 1972. The box is titled Ban, Shizukana Kukan no Tame ni (Basin, For a Quiet Space) and signed Zenji-saku, dated inside Showa 47 (1972) with a notation stating this piece was displayed at the 2nd Gendai Nihon Shinjin Sakka Ten (2nd Modern Japanese New Artists Exhibition). The piece is 43 x 51 x 21 cm (17 x 20 x 8 inches) and weighs 16 kgs (35 pounds) plus the box...

An unusually large Tetsu-mon Vase by Ningen Kokuho Shimizu Uichi over 13 inches (33 cm) tall enclosed in the original signed wooden box. Dispersed over the pin-holed white glaze are diametrically opposed red and black iron dashes of color. A vase with huge presence. Shimizu Uichi (1926-2004) was born in Kyoto the son of a ceramic dealer. Discarding the family business he apprenticed in plastic arts under Ishiguro Munemaro...

Large Japanese Gigaku demon mask, covered with red, gold, and black lacquer. The colors gold and red are associated with the underworld, especially when apparent in a demon's eyes. This mask sports long fangs, a stubby ridged nose, and furrowed brow. The inside of the mask has rice paper with kanji signature of the sculpting artist. Dates from the Tiasho age c1920. Size: 17.25" height, 13" width

A pair of snow shoes made of rice straw which is from Tohoku district in Japan Sea side prefecture such as Yamagata or Akita. In excellent condition. 20th century. L:28cm, W:11cm, H:12cm

A captivating bowl created by Kyoto potter Kawai Zuiho, most likely in the early 70’s. This bowl features a red undercoat which is visible in places through the greenish overglaze. The effect is quite striking and sure to attract the eye. With a convenient indent on the side, this bowl fits comfortably in the hand.

Kyo-Yaki is high-fired ceramic and pottery that centers around the Higashiyama district of Kyoto...

Chinese unmounted scroll painting of an abstract floral scene. Earthy tone pigments create a beautiful contrast. Red artist stamp of Wang Zhonghe (born 1946), who held a recent exhibition in Saudi Arabia. Size: (entire scroll) 46.5" H, 25" W (artwork only) 38.5" H x 19" W

This well carved 1970’s jade (jadeite) pendant is half of an inch thick and 2 inches in diameter. It depicts two Qi Lin (or Qi Ren) facing each other on the top, and two stylized characters of “Shou” (Longevity) are carved on the bottom. It is in great condition.

Kokeshi, wooden folk toy of NE Japan. Height: 8.25". This is an example of "Kijiyama-kei" tradition of Akita Prefecture. The artisan was Abe Heishirou. It is not dated, but was most likely made in the 1960's to 1970's. For a brief story on "dentou" (traditional) kokeshi, please see our website, which is accessible through our Trocadero homepage.

Japanese framed print by sosaku-hanga artist Haku Maki (1924-2000) titled "Collection 37". Depiction of a black vase with cracked lip and gilt leaves. Signed in pencil with red artist's cartouche, dated 1980, number 144/230.

Circa 1980

Dimensions: 12 3/4" x 14" H (entire frame) 8 1/2" x 9 3/4" H (artwork only)

This brilliant Tenmoku chawan displays gold and flaxen hues interspersed with dark ash glaze. The piece rests upon an unglazed clay pedestal showing the iron-rich clay the bowl is formed from.

Shodai-ware has a long and storied history stretching back as far as the Nara (710 - 794) and Heian (794 - 1192 ) periods...

Kokeshi, folk toy of NE Japan. Wood, height 10". Made by Sugawara Toshi, born Showa 13 (1938) and passed away in December of 1992 at the age of 55. Akiu Onsen is a hot spring resort not far from the city of Sendai. It is thought to be one of the oldest kokeshi-making locales in the Tohoku region where all traditional (dentou) kokeshi originate.

Porcelain statue of the Laughing Buddha/Budai, whose name means "cloth sack" and is depicted holding the cloth sack he is believed to have lived in. He wears pink and light yellow robes with flower patterns, has a lotus flower creeping down his left breast, is holding prayer beads, and has five happy children climbing on him. 20th century Size: 9" tall, 8" wide

Green jadeite ring with areas of beautiful deep green, set in an 18K yellow gold ring with incised lines that come to a triangular point. The inside of the band is inscribed with Chinese markings that have been partially worn away from use. 20th century Size: 2.25" length of entire ring, jadeite stone approx. .75" height, .5" width

A Birks sterling silver 6-1/2" pair of grape shears in the box with a bag. They are in their original cloth bag and Birks box. This table accessory is stamped BIRKS STERLING CANADA and STAINLESS STEEL, and it is in excellent barely used condition with no dents, bends, corrosion, losses, damage or repairs; the box has a couple of areas where tape has been removed...

Japanese framed woodblock print by artist Hasui Kawase (1883-1957), depicting a man walking down a cobblestone path to the beach. Markings include Hasui's red chop and signature, publisher seals in left margin, red chop in bottom left corner.

Size: (entire frame) 16" W x 21" H (print only) 10 1/2" L x 15" H

An unusual bit of Seto ware by important artist Kato Sho enclosed in the original signed wooden box. Enigmatic windows in the smooth black coating reveal icy-pale glaze and one streak of raw sandy earth baked red. The bowl is quite large, and very pleasing to hold, slightly tapered so as to concentrate the aroma rising from the freshly whipped tea. The piece is signed alongside the kodai Sho-saku...

An exquisitely crafted candleholder executed in the pure palate of crystal glass with gold inclusion that is a hallmark of Archimede Seguso's work. The masterful sculpting of the flowers is remarkable. 9" x 4" x 4.5" This fine piece is in perfect condition.

This child's cap from the from the high valleys of Indus Kohistan is dated to the mid-late 20th century and embellished with cowry shells, white beads and metal snaps and trinkets. The embroidery is tent stitch worked in cotton thread, forming interlocking diamond motifs on the crown. Condition: overall good, some fraying. Diameter is 7 inches, circumference 15 1/4 inches.

Excellent addition to any glass collection! Designed by Tom Connally, this decanter stands 12 1/4 inches tall with it's mushroom cap stopper. (10 3/4 inches without) and is 2 3/4 inches in diameter. The color is a crisp, clear blue. The decanter has a heavy base so its not easily tipped. These pieces were hand blown so there are variations in the glass and structure. Rare, Made only from 1969 to 1972. Condition is excellent with no chips or cracks.

A heavily potted Ash-glaze vase by Seto potter Kato Shinya enclosed in the original signed wooden box. The geometric patterns collide and dance off each other, gray on white, a piece well representing the artistic endeavors of the era in which it was created. The vase is quite large, 13 inches tall, 8-1/4 inches diameter and in excellent condition. Shinya was born into the family of Seto potter Kato Sakusuke in 1940, and graduated the Tokyo University of Art sculpture division in 1964, follow...

A unique Japanese kanban (shop sign) in the shaped of a pipe, with gilt kanji. It hangs from a length of iron chain. A very fun and attractive piece. Vintage age c1950 Size: 8" height (17.5" hanging) 26.5" length

Beautiful scroll painting by artist Yuan Feng Zhau of a robed man playing the flute, riding upon the back of an ox. The suggested movement of the ox seems as if it is dancing along with the music. Extreme attention to detail is shown, especially in the very fine brush strokes used for the man's hair. Signed and stamped in the corner. 20th century Size: (art only) 59" height, (entire scroll) 69.5" height, 18.5" width

The image of the brush-drawn circle, known most commonly as the “enso” of Japanese Buddhism, has long been a symbol of strength, elegance, and the simultaneous being and nonbeing (mu) of the universe. A closed enso is associated with the idea of perfection while an open enso represents movement, fluidity, and attainment in the corporeal world. In this composition by veteran Mino potter Takuzo Mizuno, we can see an open enso done in thick feldsparic glaze on a classic background of nezumi Shi...

A vintage Japanese Sado Mizuya (kitchenette for tea ceremony) made of Hinoki (Cypress). Used for storing tea bowls, brush whisks, ladles, tea caddies and various tea ceremony accoutrements. Bottom left drawer is copper lined to hold water that is drained from the bamboo grill above that holds newly washed bowls. Various shelves and hanging posts used for organizing and storage. Two large sliding doors used to close this chest when not in use.

Age: Late Showa Period

Dimensions: 3...

The creator of this lovely Hagi chawan, Hirose Tanga (b. 1939) is the master-potter of Tenpozan kiln in the city of Hagi. When I acquired this piece I thought it reminded me of bowls produced by Yoshida Shuen (apprenticed under NLT Miwa Kyusetsu). As it turns out, Yoshida worked alongside Hirose in establishing Tenpozan and in training young potters in the art of “oni” Hagi which utilizes a rough textured clay and a milky translucent glaze (like the bowl shown here). Bowls made using this te...

Takamatsu Yomeiri Ningyo; Clay Bridal Trousseau Dolls from Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture, Shikoku Island. Set of 5 depicting auspicious images: Happy Couple, Dog, Rabbit, Ebisu with Tai (Sea Bream,) Dog with Tai. H. .75" to 1.125" (2cm-2.75cm) x W. .875" to 1.375" (2.25cm - 3.5cm;) painted clay, ca. 1972. Condition notes: .75cm paint chip on back of Ebisu, paint chipped away on fish of Dog with Tai figure. Others all in excellent condition. Takamatsu Yomeiri (Bride entering marriage) Ningyo (...

Kokeshi, wooden folk toy of NE Japan. Height: 9.75". This is an example of the "Naruko-kei" tradition of Miyagi Prefecture. It was made by the artisan, Oonuma Hideo, who was born on February 17, 1930 (Showa 5.) It is dated September 15th, Showa 50 (1975,) but it is not clear if this was a production date signed by the maker, or a purchase date signed by the collector. For a brief story on "dentou" (traditional) kokeshi, please see our weblog, which can be accessed through our Trocadero homepage...

Painting by Chinese artist Ching Xiangko of five cute, swimming shrimp. There are subtle variations of color and depth in each shrimp, showing the artist had great control over the ink distribution. Signed and stamped, dated between 1960-1970. Size: 27" height, 18" width

A Rare Pair of Batik, Sun and Moon by Malaysian artist, Chuah Siew Teng, eldest son of the most famous batik artist of all time, Chuah Thean Teng, the creator of modern batik painting. Chuah Siew Teng is now widely recognized as the greatest living batik artist. He rarely, if ever, created a pair of paintings to be sold as a pair, so this pair is very rare as well as exquisitely beautiful. Purchased directly from the artist in 1977. Frame: 30.25 x 23 inches, 77 x 58.5 cm; Batik: 23 x 17.5 inches...

Mashiko ware platter (oozara) with nami-jiro (regular white) glaze and kaki (persimmon-colored glaze) ladle splashes. H.5.5cm(2.25") x Dia.38cm(15"). ca. 1970. Mashiko wares gained worldwide popularity through the connection with National Living Treasure potter Shoji Hamada, who settled in this town of pottery and agriculture in the 1920's. Prior to Hamada's arrival, standard kitchen wares such as grinding bowls, water jars, teapots, and the like, were the standard products of Mashiko. Contempo...

This modern decanter by Fratelli Toso is ideal for any collector of wine decanters. The decanter and stopper are in good condition and the decanter retains its circular blue Fratelli Toso label.

Paper mache Daruma Dolls from Tamashima district of Kurashiki in Okayama Prefecture by Ono Ichi, ca. 1972. Pair or single, smaller (FI-8b): H. 4.875"(12.2cm) x W.3.5"(9cm.); larger (FI-8a): H.5.25"(13.25cm) x W.3.375"(8.5cm.) Painted paper mache. These dolls were made in 11 sizes ranging from 11 - 45cm. The small one here is the second smallest size made, known as "9-go", and the larger is an "8-go" size. Condition notes: The larger Daruma is intact but there are cracks in the paper and a number...

Kokeshi, folk toy of NE Japan. Wood, height 9.5". Naruko-kei, Miyagi Prefecture. Made by Itou Shouichi (Matsuichi?), born on Feb. 13, Taisho 13 (1924). This kokeshi probably dates from the 1970's.

Japanese woodblock print by artist Hiroshi Yoshida (1876-1950), from the series The Kansai District, titled Sarusawa Pond, dated with signature, red artist's chop, publisher's markings in left margin.

Size: 10.5" W x 16" H

Naruko-kei Kokeshi by Tsugawara Wahei, born Sept. 13, 1945. Wood, Height 7". Although this is a typical Naruko stle kokeshi, the words "Kaizen Damashii" (Group Spirit) have been written over the normal decorative patterns. Also written is "Mogami Denki Kabushiki Kaisha" (Mogami Electric Company, Inc.) This was probably commissioned and given out to company employees at a corporate solidarity event or campaign. Probably dates from the 1980's.

Kogo (Incense Container) by Kawai Takeichi; Kyoto, 1972. Dark green glaze. 2.25"(5.75cm) square x 1.75"(4cm) high. This piece was acquired on a visit to the Kawai pottery on August 9, 1972 and has had one owner since then. Kawai Takeichi (1908-1989) is the nephew of legendary Mingei (Folk Craft) Movement potter Kawai Kanjiro (1890-1966;) who along with Yanagi Soetsu, Hamada Shoji, Bernard Leach, and others were the first-generation leaders of this movement. Kawai Takeichi began his apprecticeshi...

Unusual murrine pitcher decorated with a single murrine called owls eye or occhi. In perfect condition, 5.5" tall, unmarked

A faceted bottle-form vase with ukibori designs by Kawai Takeichi enclosed in the original signed wooden box. It is 11 inches (27 cm)tall, 4 inches (10 cm) square and in excellent condition.
Kawai Takeichi (1908-1989) studied the art of pottery under his legendary uncle Kawai Kanjiro in Kyoto from the age of 19. He stayed with Kanjiro for many years, one of his most loyal supporters, and the two were very close. He founded his own kiln in 1953, and participated in many private and publ...

Kokeshi, folk toy of NE Japan. Wood, height 9.75". Kijiyama-kei, Akita Prefecture. Made by Abe Youko; born April 3, 1932. This kokeshi probably dates from the 1970's. Women kokeshi makers, such as Ms. Abe, are in the minority in Japan in this craft that is usually handed down from father to son. Also, unique & interesting about Kijiyama style kokeshi is the depiction of the apron ("maekake" or "maedare") on the body.

This large aquatic-themed vase by Alfredo Barbini is superbly executed. The sculpted fish have animated expressions as they float through the freely drawn seaweed. This beauty illustrates Alfredo Barbini's mastery of the material. 12" tall, weighs 11 pounds and is in good condition with normal wear at the base.

Dylund Mid-Century Modern Console Teakwood Tambour Doors 76” Wide 18” deep 30” tall Danish origin

Kokeshi, folk toy of NE Japan. Wood, height 12". Yamagata-kei classification of Yamagata Prefecture. Made by Kobayashi Koutaro of Yamagata City, born March 13, 1936. This kokeshi probably dates from the late 1970's. The very thin body of this kokeshi is an unusual and interesting characteristic.

Kokeshi, folk toy of NE Japan. Wood, Height 8.25". Naruko-kei, Miyagi Prefecture. Made by Satou Minoru, born Dec. 27, 1932. This kokeshi probably dates from the 1970's.

Hirosaki Hato Bue, Clay Pigeon Whistle from Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture. Painted clay; L.6"(15cm) x H.4"(10cm) x 2.5"(6.5cm.)ca. 1970's. Condition very good, small paint chip on left eye (see enlargement #3.) The hato bue has been a popular folk toy of Aomori, and other regions of Japan, since the Edo Period (1600-1868.) In particular, it is said that the fuedal lord of the Hirosaki district allowed local roof tile- making potters to use the fuedal kilns to make additional functional wares and f...

Namako glaze runs down, creating rivers flowing around the horns on the sides of this massive pot by Suzuki Kenji (1935-2010). Looking within one sees the volcanic explosions where the glaze pooled, bubbled and burst in the center. The vessel is 18 inches (45.5 cm) tall, roughly 13 inches (33 cm) square and weighs 20.5 kg (45 pounds). It is in fine condition. By size and structure it would be acceptable for display either inside or out.
This is from the Matsui family collection of Fush...

Kokeshi, wooden folk toy of NE Japan. Height: 3.75". This is an example of the "Naruko-kei" tradition of Miyagi Prefecture. This particular shape was called an "ezuko" (basket child) in the local Miyagi vernacular. The artisan was Sakurai Shouji, who was born on January 1st, 1927 (Showa 2.) It is not dated, but was most likely made during the 1960's or 1970's. For a brief story on "dentou" (traditional) kokeshi, plase see our weblog, which can be accessed through our Trocadero homepage.

Kokeshi, wooden folk toy of NE Japan. Height: 8.5". This is an example of the "Yamagata-kei" tradition of Yamagata Prefecture. This kokeshi was made in the town of Toune by the artisan Yamaguchi Shuuichi, who was born on June 21, 1924 (Taisho 13.) It is not dated, but was most likely made during the 1970's or early 1980's. For a brief story on "dentou" (traditional) kokeshi, please see our weblog, which is accessible through our Trocadero homepage.

Chinese enamel porcelain figurine of Budai, or the Laughing Buddha. He sits in a royal ease position, sporting his usual jolly facial expression, and holds a string of prayer beads in his right band over his belly, with his cloth sack in his left hand, in which he is said to reside. He wears yellow and green robes with blue, green, and red floral patterns, lined in red. His head is very articulated with pierced nostril and ear holes and mouth. The bottom of the figurine bears the mark "Zeng Long...

Japanese framed woodblock print by Kihei Sasajima (1906-1993), signed, titled, and numbered 54/100 in pencil, with red chop. Image of a samurai running with sword over his shoulder in black with deep blue pigments.

Size: (entire frame) 21" L x 17" H (print only) 14" L x 10.5" H

A Hakuji Mentori Vase by Takenaka Ko enclosed in the original signed wooden box. It is 5-1/2 inches (14 cm) diameter, 13 inches (33 cm) tall and in excellent condition.
Ko (born 1941) apprenticed under future Living National Treasure Kondo Yuzo before establishing his own kiln in 1970. He was the recipient of one of Japans most prestigious awards, the JCS award (Japanese Ceramics Society) in 1980. He was designated an Intangible Cultural Property of Kyoto in 1995 (Mukei Bunkazai or pre...