Catalog (115)

Japanese carved boxwood large Okimono, Mino-Kame turtle. Late 19th Century, Meiji Period. Mino (straw raincoat) Kame (turtle/tortoise) are named as such because Japanese believe the turtle lives such a long time that they grow algae on their on their shells, symbolizing longevity. A magnificent carving made of a single block of fine boxwood, showing amazing details and a beautiful wood grain throughout this masterpiece. 18 x 8.5 x 4 inches, 45.75 x 21.5 x 10 cm.

An early pair of Japanese Kutani Porcelain Shishi (Foo Dogs). These unique porcelains have a rich brown glaze with black and white under glaze. They have a wonderful mythological presence. 7 x 4.5 inches, 18 x 11.5 cm each. Excellent Condition. From a prominent and widely exhibited collection.

Early Meiji Period Japanese Bronze Incense Burner in the form of a Dragon Fish, a mythical animal. This is a rare subject for a Japanese incense burner. It has a wonderful mythical character and presence. It has a beautiful camel bronze patina. An amazing sculpture with its original black lacquered box. Height: 9 inches, 23 cm.

Japanese pair of very large gold lacquer on carved wood Lotus Flowers, 11 flowers in each pair for 22 all together, of them fully bloomed Lotus Flowers. Edo Period, Early 19th Century. They were likely used on the altar of a Buddhist temple, representing the full cycle of life. They have a rich gold patina. This size and condition are extremely rare and almost never found. Height of the tallest: 41.5 inches, 105.5 cm. Excellent Condition. From a prominent and widely exhibited collection. (Vase is, of course, not included.)

17th Century Early Edo Period Spectacular Japanese Temple Sculpture of Baku, a mythical beast loosely representing an Elephant with a combination of other animals, creating an original form. The Baku is the "Dream Catcher" of ancient Japanese Shinto mythology. It is inserted in the ceiling to watch over the temple. This Baku is a masterpiece sculpture of magnificent presence. It will surely be the focal point in any environment. It is carved entirely from solid Keyaki (Zelkova) wood, one the finest woods of Japan, and it takes two men just to lift it. Mounted on a lacquered stand, it rotates easily on the stand. 36 inches (91.5 cm) long x 25 inches (63.5 cm) tall. 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.

Japanese Satsuma Porcelain of a Baby Boy in a Beautiful Bib Holding a Whistle Bird. A charming sculpture with a wonderful presence. 8 inches, 20.5 cm.

Taisho Period Japanese Ceramic Rabbit Figure, with original artist signed box. A charming studio work of art with wonderful glazes creating a striking image. 6 inches, 15cm.

This signed Meiji Period (circa 1880) Japanese Theater Mask of Tengu by the artist, Kogyo is an extraordinary example of the character, with its dramatic and spectacular face. The most fabulous one we have seen. This mask represents the mischievous Forest God seen in Kyogen plays performed between Noh Dramas. It is for the most discerning collector. Lacquer over wood with silk hair. 9 inches (23 cm)h x 6.5 inches (16.5 cm)w, 21 inches (53.5 cm)h with beard. Excellent Condition. From a prominent and widely exhibited collection.

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.

Very Rare Japanese Jomon Period (13,000-300BC) Terracotta torso (broken off at waist) in the form of a female figure with a bird head. Overall incised decoration. Accompanied by a small terracotta disc found in the same grave lot. Figure: 4.5 x 4 inches, 11.5 x 10 cm; Disc: 2.25 x 1.5 inches, 5.75 x 4 cm. Very Good Condition.

Rare Kamakura Period Sculpture of a of a Nio Guardian King exhibiting power and fierceness. According to Japanese tradition, they traveled with the historical Buddha to protect him. Within the generally pacifist traditions of Buddhism, stories of Niō guardians like Kongōrikishi justified the use of physical force to protect cherished values and beliefs against evil. It is rare to find such an early example. Carved wood and lacquer with some imperfection and losses, as with most works of art surviving the period. 20 inches, 51 cm.

A spectacular Edo Period Bizen Ceramic Sculpture representing the Goddess Kannon riding a Shishi. This is an early and Museum Quality piece used as a Brazier Cover in the tea ceremony, used by the highest class. 8 inches (20.5 cm) high. Excellent Condition. Mid 18th Century. From a prominent and widely exhibited collection.

A wonderful signed Kibori (single chop carving) Okimono of a Stag by the renowned Ika Goyo, beautifully painted in delicate tones, with removable antlers carved of horn. Original box is included. 7 x 7 x 7 inches, 18 x 18 x 18 cm.

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.

Edo Period (circa 1820) Japanese Sculpture of Tenjin, the Shinto God of Knowledge. It was housed and displayed in a Shinto shrine. This Tenjin is extraordinary. it was commissioned by a wealthy family and presented to the shrine as a gift. It is an amazing work of art and is complete with its platforms and accessories. Its color and lacquer work are sublime. He has crystal eyes which add to an unforgettable image. 34 inches (86.5 cm)h x 22 inches (56 cm)w x 13 inches (33 cm)d. Excellent Condition. From a prominent and widely exhibited collection.

Edo Period (circa 1750) Large Japanese Wood Sculpture of a Shrine Horse, a gift from an upper-class family to a shrine. Images of Horses are highly prized in Japan. It is commissioned and presented to protect a newborn male child. Rising up on its back legs, set to gallop, it strikes an animated, exciting, and beautiful pose that sets it apart from the usual static poses that these horses have. The curves of the sculpture are masterfully rendered to convey the sense of action and spirit in this rare horse. It has a great presence from all angles, and a wonderful color and patina. 25 inches (63.5cm) tall x 38.75 inches (98.5cm) long. From a widely renowned and published collection that has been exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum and Japan Society.

Spectacular Early Meiji Period (circa 1880) Japanese Lion Mask used on the head of a float for the Gion Festival. This huge mask is an arresting image to behold. This fabulous carving is heavily lacquered in red, black and gold. The head can be raised to show his open mouth, creating a very impressive and imposing presence to behold. 38 inches (96.5 cm)w x 25 inches (63.5 cm)h x 24 inches (61 cm)d. From a widely renowned and published collection that has been exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum and Japan Society.