Mingei Arts

Know the Difference between Japanese, Chinese & Korean Artifacts

One’s ability to know the difference between cultures is critical in buying and collecting.

What is the Difference between Antiques, Vintage Arts, and Collectibles?

The “Age” Factor.

An Introduction

The thirty year old “bridge to Japan”?

Serendipity – Serendipiti

セレンディピティ
Possessing the gift to find the unique and unusual is a talent that all collectors hope to acquire. These fortunate discoveries, by accident, are called “sleepers” when you find them in the least expected place. Here you can find information and pieces on Okimono, Netsuke, Lighting, Folk Carvings, Hanging Scrolls, Scroll Weights, Erotica and Temari Balls. Don’t just dream. Check out our diverse collection of sleepers.

Textiles & Accessories – Tekisutairu & kami kazari

テキスタイル＆髪飾り

The Japanese have traditionally viewed textiles as an embodiment of not only beauty, but as family heirlooms and repositories of history. The Noren replaces doors and welcomes guests, woven tatami mats cover the floors; and the Japanese lady, eschewing jewelry, beautifully-woven, embroidered, dyed, or painted silk Kimono and Obi, and adorned herself with exquisite hair combs and pins.

Lacquerware- Shikki

漆器

While China originally developed the use of lacquer as a surfacing material, it was the Japanese who refined the various techniques of lacquer application, with stunning use of gold maki.e and silver powders. In pieces ranging from an Inro to letter boxes, trays, and even furniture, Japanese lacquerware reigns supreme.

Dolls & Toys – Ningyo & Omocha

人形＆おもちゃ

“A nation without toys is a nation doomed to ruin” says an old adage. The Japanese are well known for doll and toy making, of which the most popular is the amazing toy known as Kokeshi.

Metal Work – Kinzoku zaiku

金属工業細工

The Japanese have been crafting amazing metal works for many centuries. Starting with the samurai’s sword and its fittings, and encompassing sculptures, vases, boxes, and lanterns, the Japanese are unsurpassed in the use of mixed metals. Their metal crafts were the major influence in the 1880’s in Europe and America.

Woodblock Prints— Mokuhan insatsu

木版印刷 木版印刷

Coloured woodblock prints are virtually the only truly Japanese art form, and in early years, illustrated traditional stories in book form. Nothing in the Western world can match the quality of the Japanese print. Click on our woodblock section and experience the history and traditions of the Japanese culture.

Ceramics & Studio Pottery – Toujiki & Atorie Yakimono

スタジオ陶器

Japanese ceramics and porcelain are some of the most highly-prized and collected pieces in the world. From the beautifully decorated, ornate Imari and Kutani porcelain, to the simplest, unadorned Raku-fired tea bowl, begin or add to your collection by clicking here.

Books – Hon

本

In trying economic times, and when travel is a luxury, we turn to computers, films, and books as means of escape. Books, especially, are not only an educational resource, but also provides us with many hours of pleasure. Be an armchair traveler and see what awaits you in our book section.

Baskets – Kago

笼

Whether antique or contemporary, woven, carved or simply lacquered, bamboo basketry plays an important role in the everyday life of the Japanese. Bamboo containers provide not only a utilitarian purpose, but offers superb beauty to the viewer as well.