Mingei Arts

Oribe ware was stylized by a famous tea master Furuta Oribe, a pupil of Sen Rikyu, under whose guidance it was first produced. This is a two (2) bowl set incorporating the standard copper-green and cream glazing with a textile-like pattern. Excellent condition. Signature/Impressed Stamp on the bottom of each piece. Dimensions:  9½” Dia (with handles) [...]

Oribe ware was stylized by a famous tea master Furuta Oribe. This piece illustrates an abstract line drawing motif on a neutral background surrounded by a border of copper green glaze. Excellent condition. Signed on back. Dimensions: 7 ½” square (19.1cm) Additional Information — Oribe ware (Oribe-yaki) is a classic style of pottery developed by [...]

Ivory Netsuke of Daruma by Hiroyuki (1868-1912), a late 19th/c artist. Its bulging eyes inset so that they pop out and retract. The ivory is decorated with painted motifs in gold and green. Daruma, the monk who brought Zen Buddhism to Japan, has become a familiar and beloved figure with an important place in religion, [...]

This Okame and Oni (Devil) mask is a beautifully-carved, fully detailed two sided netsuke. This wonderful antique netsuke represents “Okame” the Goddess of Mirth and Sensuality, whose real name is Amen no Uzume no Mikoto. She is always depicted smiling, having two very puffy cheeks and a tiny mouth. On the opposite side of the [...]

One of the eight immortals, Li Tie Guai with his staff, who has a reputation for benevolence is depicted as a beggar in finely glaze soft green and brown. He is holding the Peach of Immortality. Early 20th/c. Good details and color, no chips, repairs or crazing. Dimensions: 2 ¼”w x 6”h (5.7cm x 15.2cm) [...]

One of the Eight Immortals, Chang Guo Lao, with his /Case of Phoenix Feathers, which he used to forecast futures. This piece is glazed in a Jade green with pale blue on his robe. Early 20th/c. Good details and color, no chips, repairs or crazing. Dimensions: 2½”w x 7 ¾”h (6.4cm x 19.7cm) History and [...]

A very rare Kamakura-Bori lacquered and carved brooch in the form of a Cherry Blossom, (Sakura). The Cherry Blossom is Japan’s most popular and meaningful symbol, and is rooted deep in the Japanese psyche. Elegant in its simplicity, and dating approximately 1890, with a sterling “barrel clasp” pin back, it is signed by the artist. [...]

The use of bird feathers has been prevalent in many cultures since ancient times, but no culture/people has refined the use of one bird’s feathers as beautifully and exquisitely as the Chinese have done with the iridescent Kingfisher Feather. From large, ornamented, lacquer panel screens, to lavish headdresses and hats, down to small, fine, elegant jewelry [...]