Catalog: Antiques: Regional Art: Asian: Japanese: Sculpture (100)

Okame, the Goddess of Mirth, is commonly paired with Usobuki in Kyogen theater. This is a rare and old pair of Okame and Usobuki ceramic figures. We have the original receipt from Things Japanese 20 years ago. We are asking the same price as the price on the receipt from 20 years ago. 6 inches (15 cm) tall.

Pair of Important 18th Century Edo Period Cricket Cages of museum quality, made for upper class or royalty. They are exceptional in every way. The Bamboo bars and Mother of Pearl inlay are of the finest Japanese craftsmanship, as are the Wisteria wood cases and red lacquered feet. Work like this is extremely rare and highly treasured in Japan. This is a unique opportunity to own an extraordinary work of Japanese art. 9 inches (23cm) tall x 8.25 inches (21cm) wide x 5.75 inches (14.5cm) deep. From a widely renowned and published collection that has been exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum and Japan Society.

Rare Japanese 7th Century Asuka Period Buddha of Paloma Wood. Beautiful patina and wood grain. The Asuka Period is known for its significant artistic, social, and political transformations, having their origins in the late Kofun period but largely affected by the arrival of Buddhism from China. The introduction of Buddhism marked a change in Japanese society. The Asuka period is also distinguished by the change in the name of the country from Wa to Nihon. 12.75h x 9.5w x 4.25d, 32.5h x 24w x 11d cm.

Rare Japanese Okimono Pair of Bronze Silverised Patina Fighting Cocks. Fine dramatic sculptures that are amazing and can be positioned in endless ways. They feature very natural details and action. Heights: 10.5 and 8 inches, 27 and 20.5 cm.

A Beautifully Carved Late 19th Century Japanese Noh Theater Mask of Okame, the Goddess of Mirth, in Exceptional Condition. 7.5 x 5.5 inches, 19 x 14 cm.

Fine example of a Jomon Period (13,000-300BC) Dogu Head, the earliest known Japanese figure. This figure was purchased in Japan in 1962 by a renowned author on and collector of Asian art. The Dogu acted as effigies of people. They manifested some kind of sympathetic magic. For example, it may have been believed that illnesses could be transferred into the Dogu, then destroyed, clearing the illness, or any other misfortune. Because of the ritual destruction of Dogu, they are quite rare. This primitive abstract fertility figure has a futuristic look. There are fun theories that state that the Dogu may be linked to extra-terrestrial Ancient Astronauts. The figures resemble 'space suits' complete with rivets and a helmet/face mask and goggles. The large eyes are also reminiscent of the traditional grey alien. 3 x 2.25 inches, 7.5 x 5.75 cm. Very Good Condition.

Late 18th, Early 19th Century Edo Period Japanese Wood Horse Sculpture in a galloping pose. The horse still has a good amount of its original colors and gold gilt. It would have been offered as a gift to a Shinto shrine from someone with the means to afford more than the usual horse plaque, but not quite the means to afford to give a real horse to the shrine, a gift only the most wealthy could afford to give. A wonderfully rendered sculpture and a special image for equestrian art collectors. 20 x 13.5 inches, 51 x 34 cm. Very Good Condition.

Fine early example of a Jomon Period Dogu Clay Figure, the earliest known Japanese figures. The Dogu acted as effigies of people. They manifested some kind of sympathetic magic. For example, it may have been believed that illnesses could be transferred into the Dogu, and then destroyed, clearing the illness, or any other misfortune. Because of the ritual destruction of Dogu, they are quite rare. This primitive abstract fertility figure has a futuristic look. There are fun theories that state that the Dogu may be linked to extra-terrestrial Ancient Astronauts. The figures resemble 'space suits' complete with rivets and a helmet/face mask and goggles. The large eyes are also reminiscent of the traditional grey alien. Many Dogu exhibitions have appeared recently: Tokyo National Museum, British Museum of Art, Miki Gallery New York. This one was on exhibit at the Arts of Pacific Asia Show NYC 2010, a vetted venue. 6 inches, 15.5 cm.

19th Century Edo Period Japanese Clay Mask of Tengu, the mischievous God of the Forest. A wonderful example of Mingei used as decorative art, with an underglaze of red and white fired to give a wonderful presence. 8.25 inches (21cm) tall) x 6.25 inches (16cm) wide. From a widely renowned and published collection that has been exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum and Japan Society.

Museum Quality Early 18th Century Edo Period (circa 1700) Gilded Japanese Sculpture of Amida Nyorai Buddha. Seated cross-legged in the lotus posture, hands joined in the mudra of contemplation, eyes all but closed in meditation, we are gazing upon the sculptor's vision of Amida enthroned in paradise. The elaborately carved lotus upon which he sits is itself a symbol of the attributes of the Amida Buddha: gentleness, openness, and purity. This is a large, rare and exquisite example, fabulously carved in every aspect, from the nimbus, the lotus, and the multiple stands, to the Buddha himself, all sumptuously lacquered in beautiful gold. The Buddha's hair is arranged in snail-like curls, and a sacred jewel adorns his forehead. The robes are enhanced with gorgeous black lacquered designs. This Buddha is imbued with all of the gentle idealism one associates with Japanese Buddhist sculpture. We are proud to offer this masterwork. 32.5 inches (82.5cm) tall x 21 inches (53.5cm) wide. From a widely renowned and published collection that has been exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum and Japan Society.

A very rare and fine example of a Jomon Period (13,000-300BC) Terracotta Plaque of a Dogu, the earliest known Japanese figure. This figure was purchased from the H. Taneguchi Gallery of Kyoto in 1985 by a renowned author on and collector of Asian art. The Dogu acted as effigies of people. They manifested some kind of sympathetic magic. For example, it may have been believed that illnesses could be transferred into the Dogu, then destroyed, clearing the illness, or any other misfortune. Because of the ritual destruction of Dogu, they are quite rare. This primitive abstract fertility figure has a futuristic look. There are fun theories that state that the Dogu may be linked to extra-terrestrial Ancient Astronauts. The figures resemble 'space suits' complete with rivets and a helmet/face mask and goggles. The large eyes are also reminiscent of the traditional grey alien. 4 x 2.75 inches, 10 x 7 cm. Very Good Condition.

Fine example of a Jomon Period (13,000-300BC) Dogu, the earliest known Japanese figure. This figure was purchased at a Parke Bernet auction by a renowned author on and collector of Asian art. The Dogu acted as effigies of people. They manifested some kind of sympathetic magic. For example, it may have been believed that illnesses could be transferred into the Dogu, then destroyed, clearing the illness, or any other misfortune. Because of the ritual destruction of Dogu, they are quite rare. This primitive abstract fertility figure has a futuristic look. There are fun theories that state that the Dogu may be linked to extra-terrestrial Ancient Astronauts. The figures resemble 'space suits' complete with rivets and a helmet/face mask and goggles. The large eyes are also reminiscent of the traditional gray alien. 4.75 inches, 12 cm tall. Very Good Condition.

Japanese Antique Bronze Rabbit Sculpture in a natural form. It has a rich dark patina, and a wonderful alert presence. A classic Japanese image of a Rabbit, and a charming Meiji Period Bronze. circa 1890 - 1900. 6 inches, 15 cm height.

One of a collection of three fantastic and rare, large Edo Period Iki masks, de-accessioned from the Musée Archéologique in Strasbourg, France during the mid-20th Century. These three are rare for their large size. They have never before been offered on the art market. The other two masks are posted on this site. Carved Poloma wood with gofun (oyster shell lacquer), glass eyes and human hair. 7.5 inches (19 cm) high x 7 inches (18 cm) wide.

One of a collection of three fantastic and rare, large Edo Period Iki masks, de-accessioned from the Musée Archéologique in Strasbourg, France during the mid-20th Century. These three are rare for their large size. They have never before been offered on the art market. The other two masks are posted on this site. Carved Poloma wood with gofun (oyster shell lacquer), glass eyes and human hair. 7.5 inches (19 cm) high x 7 inches (18 cm) wide.

Antique Japanese Okimono Bamboo Sculpture of a Snow Monkey Holding a Peach. Unique master carving of wonderful charm and presence with a fine patina. A must for the monkey and Japanese enthusiast. 12 inches, 30.5 cm tall. Excellent Condition. From a prominent and widely exhibited collection.

Rare Japanese Heian Period, 12th Century Wood Sculpture of Kannon, the Goddess of Compassion and Mercy. Even though it is not in a complete state, it has a wonderful, peaceful presence that is really a delight to bask in. It has a magnetic face with a serene expression. Japanese sculpture of this age is hard to find. A fabulous work of art and a rare, magnificent sculpture. 16 inches, 40.5 cm. From a widely renowned and published collection that has been exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum and Japan Society.

Japanese Bronze Incense Burner of a Monkey. A wonderful stylized casting of a hanging monkey. A special work of art. 10.5 inches, 26.5 cm.