{"title":"Serendipity: All Other Things Japanese","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSerendipity is a happy and unexpected event that occurs due to chance, and often appears when we are searching for something else. Serendipity is a delight when it happens in our daily lives, as chance plays an important role in collecting, and has been responsible for some exciting discoveries in the antique and folk art worlds. \u003cspan\u003eAn enduring cliche’ about Japan is that the old and traditional co-exist harmoniously with the modern lifestyle.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis catagory\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e of our site will serve Japanese collectors and anyone interested in Japanese craft, the culture, and the history of the visual excitement of the objects which represent\u003c\/span\u003e art, craft, and artisanship present in all antique and vintage Japanese arts and crafts produced by artists throughout Japan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"kokeshi-wooden-treasures-of-japan","title":"Kokeshi: Wooden Treasures of Japan by Michael Evans and Robert Wolf | New and Direct from the Publisher","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis 2005 First Printing of our book is about to end...We are the editors and publishers selling new, unused copies of this book at our publisher's discounted price.\u003c\/strong\u003e Our book offer remains unused\/new copies are only sold on our site. \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eIf you are a Kokeshi collector we want you to know that many Kokeshi enthusiasts are basing their collections around books on the subject. Since its publication 5,000 new books have been sold.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eThis gorgeous \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e232p. index. illus., \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003epage book - the only comprehensive book on the subject in English and print - captures the charm of these wooden treasures with 224 full-color plates of the very best examples of both traditional and creative Kokeshi dolls from all regions of Japan. The cover is unusual and has the look and feel of hand-crafted binding (Purfect Bound). Size: 6-9\/16” x 11” x 3\/4”.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eKokeshi: Wooden Treasures of Japan\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e, is a modern exploration of two centuries-old folk craft. This timely publication reflects both the growing interest in Japan and Japanese culture in the West, and the rediscovery of folk art, traditional crafts, and culturally unique handmade objects. Beyond simple visual charm, the book presents an entirely new way of appreciating Kokeshi. By exploring the variety, diversity, and historical uniqueness of Kokeshi, the dolls become - beyond a delight to the eye - an important representation of a culturally rich and creative society. Familiar examples along with rare and lesser-known dolls are presented according to the traditional or creative association. Special attention is given to dolls of the ten traditional Kokeshi families, as well as creative dolls depicting popular folk legends and figures. Kokeshi by representative artists and regional and religious dolls are also included. To complete this publication, artists’ marks, signatures, and places of origin are illustrated. This book is an essential illustrative reference for the serious collector, and a fascinating education for anyone interested in folk dolls, traditional arts, or Japanese culture. \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThis book received an award from the Independent Publishers Association in 2005.    \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e© \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eApril\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e 2005 — Vermillion Publishing\u003c\/b\u003e — ISBN bc: 0-9759570-0-7. \u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDigital Millennium Copyright Act.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNOTE: \u003cspan style=\"color: #ff2a00;\"\u003eTHIS BOOK WILL BE SHIPPED MEDIA MAIL AND FOR INTERNATIONAL VIA \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #ff2a00;\"\u003e- USPS Priority Mail International® Flat Rate Envelope. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mingei Arts","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":28343382278244,"sku":"0-9759570-0-7","price":24.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/KokeshiWTJ_Publisher.jpg?v=1616426668"},{"product_id":"jindai-koma-top-sadohara-region-miyazaki-prefecture","title":"Jindai Koma Top | Sadohara region  Miyazaki prefecture","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eTypically had the crest of the lords of Shimazu. It is an old toy (Edo period – 1603-1867), with several other names.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mingei Arts","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30181123227748,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/edo-bamboo.jpg?v=1569017343"},{"product_id":"emperor-and-empress","title":"Ouchi Nuri “Emperor and Empress” Lacquer Doll Set","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDimensions: Emperor- \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e3-1\/4’ w x 3-0” h; \u003cstrong\u003eEmpress\u003c\/strong\u003e- 3-1\/8” w x 2-3\/4”h\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis is a beautiful set of Japanese Ouchi lacquer dolls. This set was in honor of Emperor Hirohito and Empress Nagako, and are both made of wood and handpainted.\u003c\/span\u003e The famous Ouchi lacquerware originated in Yamaguchi city and dates back hundreds of years. The most familiar of the Ouchi products are the Emperor and Empress doll sets. Threre is no signature or kiriwood box with these dolls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eVintage Condition\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e: “as is”, impectable condition retaining the original color\/finish\/craft\/workmanship. Any discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear or structural damage noted. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNOTE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e: \"The Ouchi bird\" represented in the round shape of the Ouchi doll represents love is said to be the symbol of the couple’s harmony and happy times and is an artifact representing a celebration of their relationship.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat Is Ouchi Lacquerware- \u003c\/strong\u003eOuchi lacquerware (called \u003ci\u003eOuchi nuri\u003c\/i\u003e in Japanese) is produced around the city of Yamaguchi, in Yamaguchi prefecture. This craft emerged under the Ouchi clan, which boasted significant influence and power in the region during the Muromachi period (1336-1573).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis lacquerware is decorated with elegant patterns of autumn flowers, like bush clovers and Japanese pampas grass. Colored lacquer is used to draw on a deep, austere vermilion base and gold leaf in the diamond shape of the Ouchi family crest is applied. As Ouchi lacquerware is coated with many layers of lacquer, it is durable and resistant to fading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOuchi dolls are particularly famous and are popular as souvenirs. The story behind the design of these dolls is that Hiroyo OUCHI, the ninth head of the clan, had doll makers move to Yamaguchi from Kyoto and produce dolls for his residence in order to comfort his wife who was homesick for Kyoto. These dolls have round faces, almond-shaped eyed, and puckered lips, and are always in a pair. They are widely loved as a symbol of matrimonial happiness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHistory - \u003c\/strong\u003eThis craft is said to have started in the late 14th century when the Ouchi clan invited lacquer craftsmen from Kyoto to produce lacquerware in Yamaguchi. The Ouchi clan, took up residence in Yamaguchi, modelled city building after Kyoto because of their admiration, and promoted cultural development and trade with China and Korea. As a result, a unique culture named Ouchi culture, which was a blend of Kyoto, Chinese and Korean cultures, arose in Yamaguchi. The production of Ouchi lacquerware flourished during this time and become one of the most important exports to China and Korea.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnfortunately, due to the trade with China and Korea ending after the destruction of the Ouchi clan and the successive clan moving to a different city during the Edo period (1603-1868), the production of quality lacquerware ended. However, the discovery of \u003ci\u003eOuchi-wan\u003c\/i\u003e, a set of luxurious lacquer bowls from the Ouchi era, among the Mori clan’s collection during the Meiji period (1868-1912) sparked the revival of the craft, with the bowls used as reference. Also, the term \u003ci\u003eOuchi-nuri\u003c\/i\u003e started being used during this time. The first Ouchi dolls were created at the Yamaguchi Prefectural Industrial Technology Institute during the Taisho period (1912-1926), and became an integral part of the craft.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1960s","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30268938584164,"sku":"","price":95.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/IMG_0704.jpg?v=1569430140"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-kutani-moriage-porcelain-okimono-of-nobel-man-signed","title":"Antique Japanese Kutani Moriage Porcelain Okimono of Nobel Man | Signed","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e4-3\/*’w x 2-1\/2”d x 3-1\/2”h.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis piece was probably made in the mid-20th century during the Showa period. The porcelain figure is about 97 years old, illustrating a wonderful treatment of ‘\u003cstrong\u003eMori\u003c\/strong\u003e’ which is an ornate textured pattern introduced by the Kutani artisans. Moriage is often used with gold incorporated into the figurine. After being painted in enamels and decorated in “mori” fashion, it is glazed and fired in a kiln. Signed by hand on the bottom with the Kutani red signature (used only for early Kutani works).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent as originally made. Retains the original craft\/workmanship. Any discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE: \u003c\/strong\u003eKo-Kutani is a style of Japanese porcelain traditionally from Kutani, now a part of Kaga, Ishikawa, in the former Kaga Province, and was made in Japan after the mid-seventeenth century. Most of the pieces found today are nineteenth-century for which dealers and collectors often use the term Kutani to refer to just the latter. These pieces continue the tradition of beautifully colored and muted pieces decorated with red, green, black, and gold representations of noblemen, warriors, animals, and birds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDifferent over-glazing techniques dominate the 19\u003csup\u003eth\u003c\/sup\u003e\/c form of Kutani:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMokubei\u003c\/strong\u003e style was influenced by Chinese ink techniques.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYoshidaya\u003c\/strong\u003e style is identified with colors of green, yellow, purple, and dark blue as the basis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEiraku\u003c\/strong\u003e style is a contrast to the \u003cem\u003eYoshidaya\u003c\/em\u003e style with its simplistic coatings of gold on the first coat of red color.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLidaya\u003c\/strong\u003e style, or the \u003cstrong\u003eHachirode\u003c\/strong\u003e, which breaks away from the conventional nature-themed Kutani style, with minute paintings of human figures on a red-gold \u003cem\u003eaka-e kinran-de\u003c\/em\u003e mix background.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShoza \u003c\/strong\u003estyle was a blend of all four techniques of overglazing.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1920-1940 (Showa Period)","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30511516745828,"sku":"","price":160.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Okimono_of_Nobel_Man_1.jpg?v=1570757298"},{"product_id":"vintage-chinese-shiwan-shekwan-ware-pottery-figure-standig-fisherman-with-pipal-raincoat","title":"Antique Chinese Republic Shiwan (Shekwan) Pottery  | Standing Fisherman with Pipal (Raincoat)","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e3-0”w x 8-0”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShown is a Chinese fisherman\/hermit standing with fish in hand is known also as Shiwan Gongzai. Pottery making in Shiwan goes back thousands of years, (Ming\/Qing dynasties), representing the daily customs of everyday people: a trendy, collectible folk art.     \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe most notable feature of this large Shiwan figure is his raincoat. \u003c\/strong\u003eThe figure is beautifully and deeply glazed, with a robe in blue\/turquoise; his trousers in white; his raincoat in an unusual\u003cstrong\u003e yellow glaze\u003c\/strong\u003e; and his straw hat, nicely detailed in green, both highly textured. The fish he is carrying is in yellow okra and his hands, feet, and face are unglazed. Notice the wonderful strapping detailing representing his sandals.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIt was the kind of raincoat also worn by the Qing Dynasty emperors and officials, where in stringent rules on the use and color of the raincoat were enforced. Chinese raincoats have gone through several changes over the centuries. The earliest forms of Chinese raincoats were made of straw with the name ‘straw rain capes’ or ‘coir rain capes’. Originally, capes were made of Chinese silver grass. These rain capes are still used, especially among farmers and fishermen, as documented in this figure. \u003c\/span\u003eHowever, during the time this Shiwan figure was made, (Qing Dynasty), another type of raincoat was developed in the Qing Dynasty. It was named pipal raincoat because it was woven with pipal tree leaves, which research shows represents the one shown in this figure. The piece has the impressed \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eCHINA\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e mark on the bottom, indicating it was made between 1890-1919. \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece was purchased in a small town located in Guangdong province, China in 1985 from a scholar who specialized in the history and folklore embodied in Shiwan ware.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cb\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eBecause of its age and the historic detailing, it is very rare and few are found in museums and mostly in private collections. Because of its age and rarity, few are found in museums outside of China, and most are held in private collections in both that country and abroad.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAntique Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is a handsome and beautifully glazed figure in excellent condition: no chips or missing elements or repairs. “As is” and retains the original craft\/workmanship. No discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage are noted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eNOTE: Fisherman-Hermit Overview:  \u003c\/b\u003eThe theme of the fisherman hermit symbolized a perfect escape from their strife-torn world in politics. Many Shekwan artists created figural art embedded with statements of political protest and shown in Scholar-hermits as lone fishermen. The rare Shekwan figures of a lone fisherman carrying his catch are a metaphor to reflect views about court officials and society regarding their choice to become a recluse and away from political issues of the time. Like many Yuan dynasty artists, (1279-1368) Chinese Scholars were inspired by the life changes of a shogunate, (hereditary military commander) and new lifestyles. The additional historical importance of the fisherman is the clothing depicted for it records a “dress down” of many who were previous government officials, (including the Quin Dynasty emperors), who wore elaborate versions of a commonly worn garment, appearing to be an everyday citizen. Many such figures were associated with poems on the subject.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eDO NOT CONFUSE MUDMEN \/ MUD FIGURES WITH THIS PARTICULAR PIECE OF SHIWAN WARE!\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eThis unique artistic style made Shiwan ceramics extraordinarily splendid, (not to be confused with the export mud men, which were smaller figures made of mud-like clay forced into a mold and\/or finger-formed, and used as decorative additions to bonsai, planters, and aquariums). The lack of expression, detail, stylistic differences, and individuality of their glazed handmade counterparts is extremely different.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eCharacteristics of Shiwan Art Pottery\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs an important part of Chinese traditional culture, ceramic wares have a long history reflecting the customs of this ancient culture. One of the most famous types of ceramic works is called Shiwan (Shekwan) ware, which has been the shining star in Chinese folk ceramic art as early as the Tang and Song Dynasties (618-906AD), and which flourished in the Ming and Qing dynasties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eChinese classical Shiwan ware is a type of traditional pottery that comes from the talented artists of a small town located in the south of China called Shiwan, in Foshan City, famous for its culture and pottery. Here craftsmen are well-known for their glazing techniques and unique forms. All the sculptural work is hand-formed, and sometimes involves numerous family members within a village, while directed by a master craftsman, \u003cb\u003eevery object is unique, and therefore, a limited edition\u003c\/b\u003e, which attracts art collectors the world over. The three largest collections of Shiwan Art Pottery are housed in the Hong Kong Fung Ping Shan Museum, and the Chinese Cultural Centre in San Francisco.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eOriginal Shiwan figurines, (1880-1940), are extremely rare because of their art\/craftsmanship and their delicate, fragile nature. The greater the detailing, the more likely the figure has been made by a master artist, hence the higher value. Also the larger the piece the more valuable, (8-0” or pieces over 20.0” tall) are extremely rare. The age of Shiwan ware can be verified by the \u003cb\u003emarkings\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eor lack of markings\u003c\/b\u003e, the fact that they are \u003cb\u003ehand-formed, depicting highly expressive figural forms and vivid imagery; primitive in sculpting techniques\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003edecorative elements associated with the figure\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe deep rich glazes infused with the piece\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe type of\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003eregional clay\u003c\/b\u003e (sandy, course clay is the oldest), and the \u003cb\u003estylistic differences\u003c\/b\u003e. Finally, pieces signed or stamped by the artist\/craftsman are rare. The oldest Shiwan pieces, before 1890, will not have a signature or stamp. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1890-1919","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30511658172516,"sku":"","price":200.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Shiwan_Fisheran_with_Pipal_Coat_1.jpg?v=1588013095"},{"product_id":"chinese-shiwan-shekwan-ware-daoist-immortal-li-tie-guai-signed-pan-yushu","title":"Antique Chinese Republic Shiwan (Shekwan) Pottery | Daoist Immortal | Li Tie Guai | Signed Pan Yushu","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e8-0”w x 11-1\/2”L x 5-0”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eThis extremely large piece has rarely existed over this long period and shows LI TIE GUAI resting on his yellow ochre glazed medicine gourd. He is extremely well-defined from the folds in his deep “pomegranate red” glazed robe accented with celadon undertones, to his extremely well-defined black hair, eyebrows, beard, and exposed body, which is glazed in brown skin color. The element that stands out is his large gourd, which carries the medicine he dispenses to those who are sick or have been alienated from society. This figure has an incised mark identifying the artist being \u003cb\u003ePan Yushu\u003c\/b\u003e and was made early in the 20\u003csup\u003eth\u003c\/sup\u003e\/Century\u003cb\u003e. \u003ci\u003eThis piece is from the Estate of Rudolph Schaeffer, (1886-1988) who headed the School of Art \u0026amp; Design in Chinatown \u0026amp; Potrero Hill San Francisco which closed in 1984. He had a large collection of Chinese artifacts, particularly Shiwan Art pottery.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eBecause of its age and rarity, few are found in museums outside of China, and most are held in private collections in both that country and abroad.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis figure represents a legendary Chinese mythological character who is a member of the eight immortals. He is benevolent to the poor, sick, and needy, whose suffering he eliminated with special medicine from his gourd, (believed to contain medicine powerful enough to revive the dead). According to legend, one day he told his followers that his spirit was going to travel far away and to watch his body for seven days while he was gone. It was a big shock when the tired spirit returned home from his trip to find no place to go because his body had been cremated. He thus became a beggar and sensitive to the needs of the sick and underprivileged. Though all the other immortals are handsome, young, noble, and wise, Li TIE GUAI remains the favorite of the immortal.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eSee additional writings on our website related to this subject: \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mingeiarts.com\/collections\/artisan-woodworker-sato-tatsuo-1928-2009\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003ehttps:\/\/mingeiarts.com\/blogs\/celebration-of-mingei-journey-through-japan\/shiwan-art-pottery-folklore-and-artistry\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e: \u003cb\u003eExcellent \u003c\/b\u003emeaning the piece is perfect, totally original, and complete with no discoloration or missing elements. The piece has a small prepare on one leg but it was professionally done with little visual awareness, and retains its wonderful visual aesthetic and corresponds to its vintage. The artifact meets all the standards of collectible Shiwan pottery. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAdditional Information\u003c\/b\u003e: Chinese Classical Shiwan ware is a type of traditional pottery that comes from the talented artists of a small town located in the south of China called Shiwan, in Foshan City, famous for its culture and pottery. Here craftsmen are well-known for their glazing techniques and unique forms. All the sculptural work is hand-formed, and sometimes involves numerous family members within a village, while directed by a master craftsman, \u003cb\u003eevery object is unique, and therefore, a limited edition\u003c\/b\u003e, which attracts art collectors the world over. The three largest collections of Shiwan Art Pottery are housed in the Hong Kong Fung Ping Shan Museum, and the Chinese Cultural Centre in San Francisco. Original Shiwan figurines, (1880-1940), are extremely rare because of their art\/craftsmanship and their delicate, fragile nature. The greater the detailing, the more likely the figure has been made by a master artist, hence the higher value. The age of Shiwan ware can be verified by the \u003cb\u003emarkings\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003eor lack of markings\u003c\/b\u003e, the fact that they are \u003cb\u003ehand-formed, depicting highly expressive figural forms and vivid imagery; primitive sculpting techniques\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003edecorative elements associated with the figure\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe deep rich glazes infused with the piece\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe type of\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003eregional clay\u003c\/b\u003e (sandy, coarse clay is the oldest), and the \u003cb\u003estylistic differences\u003c\/b\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"1890-1919","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30511731605604,"sku":"","price":1250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/files\/AntiqueChineseRepublicShiwan_Shekwan_Pottery_DaoistImmortal_LiTieGuai_SignedPanYushu.jpg?v=1715985755"},{"product_id":"chinese-rare-shiwan-shekwan-ware-lohan-arahat","title":"Antique Chinese Shiwan Pottery | Lohan","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e5-1\/2”w x 4-1\/4”d x 5-1\/2”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis exceptional mud figure is beautifully glazed in a rust-colored base that shows through to the celadon outer glazing on his robe. It is beautifully detailed with its natural folds. His feet, (one leg pulled up over his left leg and held by both hands), detailed hands, chest, which shows his ribs as that of an \u003cstrong\u003eascetic\u003c\/strong\u003e, (a person who practices severe self-discipline and abstention), and expressive face\/head are unglazed. The most exceptional features are his beard and eyebrows. They are glazed in white and shown as small “dots” outlining their shapes and giving an exceptional texture to the face. His facial expression suggests he is in a contemplative mood. The figure has an incised seal of Wen Zhongling and was made between 1900-1920. \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis piece is from the Estate of Rudolph Schaeffer, (1886-1988) who headed the School of Art \u0026amp; Design in Chinatown \u0026amp; Potrero Hill San Francisco which closed in 1984. He had a large collection of Chinese artifacts, particularly Shiwan Art pottery.\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eBecause of its age and rarity, few are found in museums outside of China, and most are held in private collections in both that country and abroad.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArahat, \u003c\/strong\u003etranslated in Chinese as \u003cstrong\u003eLohan\u003c\/strong\u003e, is an important figure in the Buddhist religion. There were originally only 18 Lohans, each added throughout the evolution of the Chinese dynasties), and were introduced into China from India around the 1\u003csup\u003est\u003c\/sup\u003e\/century A.D. It is said that Lohan supposedly moved through all the stages of the Buddhist ‘eightfold path’, and he conquered all the desires that enmesh a person in the continuous cycle of birth and death, and hence will no longer be reborn. He is regarded as a type of saint who has already attained Nirvana and is attributed to supernatural powers. Lohan was thought to collect all the relics of Buddha, built a splendid pagoda to house them, and then vanished into Nirvana.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e: Excellent\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emeaning that the piece retains its original craft\/workmanship showing a wonderful-developed patina commensurate which suggests a degree of wear that corresponds to its vintage and meets all the standards of the collectible Shiwan ware. No discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage\u003c\/span\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eAdditional Information: \u003c\/b\u003eAs an important part of Chinese traditional culture, ceramic wares have a long history reflecting the customs of this ancient culture. One of the most famous types of ceramic works is called Shiwan (Shekwan) ware, which has been the shining star in Chinese folk ceramic art as early as the Tang and Song Dynasties (618-906AD), and which flourished in the Ming and Qing dynasties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eChinese Classical Shiwan ware is a type of traditional pottery that comes from the talented artists of a small town located in the south of China called Shiwan, in Foshan City, famous for its culture and pottery. Here craftsmen are well-known for their glazing techniques and unique forms. All the sculptural work is hand-formed, and sometimes involves numerous family members within a village, while directed by a master craftsman, \u003cb\u003eevery object is unique, and therefore, a limited edition\u003c\/b\u003e, which attracts art collectors the world over. The three largest collections of Shiwan Art Pottery are housed in the Hong Kong Fung Ping Shan Museum, and the Chinese Cultural Centre in San Francisco.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eOriginal Shiwan figurines, (1880-1940), are extremely rare because of their art\/craftsmanship and their delicate, fragile nature. The greater the detailing, the more likely the figure has been made by a master artist, hence the higher value. Also the larger the piece the more valuable, (8-0” or pieces over 20.0” tall) are extremely rare. The age of Shiwan ware can be verified by the \u003cb\u003emarkings\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eor lack of markings\u003c\/b\u003e, the fact that they are \u003cb\u003ehand-formed, depicting highly expressive figural forms and vivid imagery; primitive in sculpting techniques\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003edecorative elements associated with the figure\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe deep rich glazes infused with the piece\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe type of\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003eregional clay\u003c\/b\u003e (sandy, coarse clay is the oldest), and the \u003cb\u003estylistic differences\u003c\/b\u003e. \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTravelers or missionaries to the orient would purchase the mud figures at local markets and carry them home. These were not stamped, because they were not for importation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, although \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eyou may find some pieces signed by the artist.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1890-1919","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30511798091876,"sku":"","price":670.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Lohan_Arahat_1.jpg?v=1588013034"},{"product_id":"chinese-shiwan-shekwan-ware-yawning-damo","title":"Antique Chinese Republic Shiwan (Shekwan) Pottery | Yawning Bodhidharma","description":"\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e4-1\/4”w x 5-1\/2”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShown is a yawning Bodhidharma representing his long periods of meditation and captured in a humorous mud figure. His wide-open mouth, and teeth are prominently displayed with wild and crazy eyes as he encourages his followers to “press forward”, for enlightenment is not far off. His robe that covers his head is in a mottled ochre blue glaze. The only exposed portion of his body is his unglazed head, which is very expressive and detailed, and his exposed foot. The piece has no impressed stamp and was made between \u003cstrong\u003e1890-1919\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis piece is from the Estate of Rudolph Schaeffer, (1886-1988) who headed the School of Art \u0026amp; Design in Chinatown \u0026amp; Potrero Hill San Francisco which closed in 1984. He had an extensive collection of Chinese artifacts and particularly Shiwan Art pottery. \u003cb\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eBecause of its age and rarity, few are found in museums outside of China, and most are held in private collections in both that country and abroad.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA yawning Bodhidharma represents his long periods of meditation and is captured in a humorous clay figure. It can be humorously interpreted that \u003cspan\u003eBodhidharma\u003c\/span\u003e was awakening from a long sleep or yawning in hunger for food. \u003cspan\u003eBodhidharma\u003c\/span\u003e settled in Song Mountain in Henan Province, the site of the Shaolin Temple, where he spent nine years practicing meditation in a cave nearby. \u003cspan\u003eA favorite subject matter of Shiwan potters, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBodhidharma\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e was an Indian Buddhist missionary of royal descent who reached the Guangdong sea and preached the Buddhist scriptures in Foshan, in A.D. 526, becoming the first patriarch of Chinese Buddhism. In the Quin dynasty, when China, was ruled by the foreign Manchu government, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBodhidharma\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e became even more popular in Shiwan as the founder of the Shaolin branch of martial arts, which was practiced in Guangdong in preparation for the overthrow of the Quin.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e: Excellent\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003emeaning that the piece retains its original craft\/workmanship showing a wonderful-developed patina commensurate which suggests a degree of wear that corresponds to its vintage and meets all the standards of the collectible Shiwan ware. No discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional Information: \u003c\/strong\u003eAs an important part of Chinese traditional culture, ceramic wares have a long history reflecting the customs of this ancient culture. One of the most famous types of ceramic works is called Shiwan (Shekwan) ware, which has been the shining star in Chinese folk ceramic art as early as the Tang and Song Dynasties (618-906AD), and which flourished in the Ming and Qing dynasties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eChinese Classical Shiwan ware is a type of traditional pottery that comes from the talented artists of a small town located in the south of China called Shiwan, in Foshan City, famous for its culture and pottery. Here craftsmen are well-known for their glazing techniques and unique forms. All the sculptural work is hand-formed, and sometimes involves numerous family members within a village, while directed by a master craftsman, \u003cb\u003eevery object is unique, and therefore, a limited edition\u003c\/b\u003e, which attracts art collectors the world over. The three largest collections of Shiwan Art Pottery are housed in the Hong Kong Fung Ping Shan Museum, and the Chinese Cultural Centre in San Francisco.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eOriginal Shiwan figurines, (1880-1940), are extremely rare because of their art\/craftsmanship and their delicate, fragile nature. The greater the detailing, the more likely the figure has been made by a master artist, hence the higher value. Also the larger the piece the more valuable, (8-0” or pieces over 20.0” tall) are extremely rare. The age of Shiwan ware can be verified by the \u003cb\u003emarkings\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eor lack of markings\u003c\/b\u003e, the fact that they are \u003cb\u003ehand-formed, depicting highly expressive figural forms and vivid imagery; primitive in sculpting techniques\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003edecorative elements associated with the figure\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe deep rich glazes infused with the piece\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe type of\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003eregional clay\u003c\/b\u003e (sandy, coarse clay is the oldest), and the \u003cb\u003estylistic differences\u003c\/b\u003e. Finally, pieces signed or stamped by the artist\/craftsman are rare. The oldest Shiwan pieces, prior to 1890, will not have a signature or stamp. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1890-1919","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30511871164516,"sku":"","price":825.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/ChineseShiwanpottery_YawningDaruma.jpg?v=1676585095"},{"product_id":"chinese-shiwan-shekwan-ware-shou-xing-god-of-longevity","title":"Antique Chinese Shiwan Pottery  | Shou Xing","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e3-0”w x 6-1\/2”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShown is a figure representing a ‘long life’. According to Chinese folklore, longevity is described as being wise, knowledgeable, and capable of ruling the world. Here is the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGod of Longevity\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e with an enormous high bald head. The story is that because of his bald head, Shou Xing was embarrassed to go out in public, and therefore often went to the hills and meditated. Eventually, he decided to meditate deep into the mountains, where no one else had dared to travel. Folklore tells us that he did not return for 1000 years and nine generations later.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe focus of this piece is in his unglazed hands where he holds a turquoise glazed peach of Immortality and his walking stick. His shaved, elongated head is unglazed and he has a lightly textured beard. On the back of his head is his queue prominently shown unglazed, in contrast to his beard and lower hairline. His robe is a combination of cream and brown. His face is wonderfully expressive and welcoming. His walking stick is not attached and can be removed from his hand, (this was done to prevent damage and to facilitate shipping). This figure is hand-inscribed on the bottom and is presumed to have been made early in the \u003cstrong\u003e1890s. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece is from the Estate of Rudolph Schaeffer, (1886-1988) who headed the School of Art \u0026amp; Design in Chinatown \u0026amp; Potrero Hill San Francisco which closed in 1984. He had an extensive collection of Chinese artifacts, particularly Shiwan Art pottery.\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eBecause of its age and rarity, few are found in museums outside of China, and most are held in private collections in both that country and abroad. \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e: Excellent\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003emeaning that the piece retains its original craft\/workmanship showing a wonderful-developed patina commensurate which suggests a degree of wear that corresponds to its vintage and meets all the standards of the collectible Shiwan ware. No discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eAdditional Information: \u003c\/b\u003eAs an important part of Chinese traditional culture, ceramic wares have a long history reflecting the customs of this ancient culture. One of the most famous types of ceramic works is called Shiwan (Shekwan) ware, which has been the shining star in Chinese folk ceramic art as early as the Tang and Song Dynasties (618-906AD), and which flourished in the Ming and Qing dynasties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eChinese Classical Shiwan ware is a type of traditional pottery that comes from the talented artists of a small town located in the south of China called Shiwan, in Foshan City, famous for its culture and pottery. Here craftsmen are well-known for their glazing techniques and unique forms. All the sculptural work is hand-formed, and sometimes involves numerous family members within a village, while directed by a master craftsman, \u003cb\u003eevery object is unique, and therefore, a limited edition\u003c\/b\u003e, which attracts art collectors the world over. The three largest collections of Shiwan Art Pottery are housed in the Hong Kong Fung Ping Shan Museum, and the Chinese Cultural Centre in San Francisco.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eOriginal Shiwan figurines, (1880-1940), are extremely rare because of their art\/craftsmanship and their delicate, fragile nature. The greater the detailing, the more likely the figure has been made by a master artist, hence the higher value. The age of Shiwan ware can be verified by the \u003cb\u003emarkings\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eor lack of markings\u003c\/b\u003e, the fact that they are \u003cb\u003ehand-formed, depicting highly expressive figural forms and vivid imagery; primitive in sculpting techniques\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003edecorative elements associated with the figure\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe deep rich glazes infused with the piece\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe type of\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003eregional clay\u003c\/b\u003e (sandy, coarse clay is the oldest), and the \u003cb\u003estylistic differences\u003c\/b\u003e. Travelers or missionaries to the orient would purchase the mud figures at local markets and carry them home. These were not stamped, because they were not for importation, although you may find some pieces signed by the artist.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1890-1919","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30511932244068,"sku":"","price":825.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/AntiqueChineseShiwanPottery_ShouXing.jpg?v=1676583869"},{"product_id":"exceptional-pair-of-meiji-japanese-cloisonne-enamel-vases","title":"Antique Japanese Goldstone Cloisonne Vase Meiji Period Matched Pair","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e4-¾”h.          \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA fine, unusual pair of early (Meiji period) vases in ‘standard cloisonne’, (\u003cstrong\u003eyusen jippo\u003c\/strong\u003e), each decorated with six panels of flowers and butterflies. The vases are typical ovoid forms in muted base colors of black, brown, ochre, and light and dark blue, with small touches of pink, green, yellow, red, white, and highlighted with ‘tea-gold stone’, (\u003cstrong\u003echakin-seki\u003c\/strong\u003e).                                                 \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent with the inlay completely intact. Both pieces have retained the original craft\/workmanship with no wear or damage to either piece. Any discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear or structural damage noted. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE: \u003c\/strong\u003eAs a general statement, Japanese enamels, (Cloisonné), are unique and exceptionally beautiful, and there is no shadow of doubt that modern Japanese enamels, in every way, surpasses the older Chinese. There are two very distinct styles in the modern enamels; the Kyoto craftsman preferring to work in the true cloisonné, where the design is laid on in gold or copper wire in geometrical or decorative motifs and patterns of bewildering fineness. The Tokyo enameler works on different lines and overall format, and produces panels which look like fine paintings on porcelain on monochrome vases, boxes and other decorative objects, which are considered a triumph of workmanship. Around 1889 we also see Tokyo artisans producing Cloisonné without wires which received prizes in Tokyo, Paris and Chicago. And, finally there is the Nagoya workshops, although probably producing more wares than those in the other two cities were often unsigned or at most signed using ink brush.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1912 (Meiji Period)","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30751907283044,"sku":"","price":265.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Pair_of_Japanese_Cloisonne__1.jpg?v=1588011604"},{"product_id":"japanese-antique-murakami-carved-vermillion-lacquered-round-box-and-cover-kurakami-kibori","title":"Japanese Antique Lacquered Round Box and Cover | Taisho Period","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e6-1\/2” dia x 3-1\/4”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a very large, rare, and superbly carved lacquer container and one of the finest examples of \u003cstrong\u003eMurakami\u003c\/strong\u003e carving techniques we have encountered. The chrysanthemum, (\u003cstrong\u003ekiku\u003c\/strong\u003e), is in raised relief, (\u003cstrong\u003eTakamakie\u003c\/strong\u003e), and the entire surface is superb, with many layers of lacquer creating a deeply textured surface. This container is called a Jikiro, a special bowl used for tea ceremonies. There are three layers intricately carved, utilizing black, dark, and light red lacquers to create an exceptional aesthetic on the exterior lid and sides. It is completed with a black base and interior, and all is layered over paulownia wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent with unusually defined carving with an exceptional number of layers of lacquer giving depth to the finish. Retains the original craft\/workmanship and perfect marriage between the lid and bowl. No discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage noted.     \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE: \u003c\/strong\u003eMurakami, a castle town in the far North of the Echigo district, is part of Niigata Prefecture, on the West coast of Japan. After the wood has been shaped the woodworker employs small knives to depict traditional landscapes, flowers, bird arrangements, or contemporary scenes into the surface. The lacquerer then takes over. Numerous layers of lacquer are applied, allowed to dry, and polished, before the final burnishing of the top coat with a special oily clay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpecific terms for Japanese decorative lacquer techniques:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eHiramakie\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e (low relief): the design is contained in one lacquer layer that stands up very slightly above the polished but undecorated surface.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eTakamakie\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e (high relief): the design is made with multiple lacquer layers, creating a sculptural effect.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eTodigdashi makie\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e: the design is covered with lacquer layers and the surface is polished completely smooth\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1912-1926 (Taisho Period)","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30752134758500,"sku":"","price":385.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Kamakura-bori_round_lacquered_box_1.jpg?v=1571083097"},{"product_id":"carved-antique-japanese-brush-rest-in-the-form-of-mt-fuji-on-rosewood-base","title":"Carved, Vintage Japanese Crystal Brush Rest in the Form of Mt. Fuji on Rosewood Base","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003eCrystal- 5-0”L x 1-1\/8”w x 1-7\/8”H; Stand- 6-3\/8”L x 1-5\/8”W x 5\/8”H\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis fine three-dimensional brush rest, (\u003cstrong\u003eFude-oki\u003c\/strong\u003e), is hand carved from Rock Crystal and in the form of Mount Fuji with life-like details, and very Zen, (inspiring meditation and intuition), while celebrating the natural inclusions of the crystal from which it is carved. The crystal, (representing the snow-topped mountain), sits beautifully on a detail carved rosewood stand, suggesting the base of the mountain, and made to conform to the crystal base. Together they afford the piece functionality and an elegant representation of this treasured cultural and spiritual symbol of Japan. \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eSuch a piece seldom survives and a true collectors find\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e. Calligraphy pieces such as these were most likely used by Japanese scholars or sumi-e artists of the time. The woodblock of Mt. Fuji is not included and only for illustrative purposes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent and all intact and comes with its original rosewood and silver tray. “As is” and retains the original craft\/workmanship. Any discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear or structural damage noted. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe Japanese calligraphy, (\u003cstrong\u003eShodo\u003c\/strong\u003e), is one of the most popular fine arts of Japan. Specialists in the Japanese culture find value in the Japanese philosophy of perfection, attention to detail and creatively, capturing the inner beauty of everything produced. This beautiful rest emphasizes an artistic philosophy of total togetherness of body and mind. To mark this treasured link to intimacy, the Japanese have a strange, centuries-old custom: \u003cem\u003ebrushes and brush rests are often buried in a Buddhist temple or Shinto shrine\u003c\/em\u003e. The basis for this is that the Japanese believe Shodo artifacts have their own life and soul, and the scholar watches over their spirit in order to ensure their benevolence.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1912-1926 (Taisho Period)","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30752406634596,"sku":"","price":270.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Crystal_Bursh_Rest_Mt._Fuji_1.jpg?v=1571084569"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-crystal-bead-calligraphy-brush-fude","title":"Vintage Japanese Crystal Bead Calligraphy Brush | Fude","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShown is an original multi-stacked crrystal bead shaft handle and horse hair calligraphy brush, (\u003cstrong\u003eFude\u003c\/strong\u003e), held in place with bone. \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eSuch a piece seldom survivse and a true collector’s find\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e. Calligraphy pieces such as this was most likely used by Japanese scholars or sumi-e artists of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent and all intact, “as is” and retains the original craft\/workmanship. Any discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear or structural damage noted. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe Japanese calligraphy, (\u003cstrong\u003eShodo\u003c\/strong\u003e), is one of the most popular fine arts of Japan. Specialists in the Japanese culture find value in the Japanese philosophy of perfection, attention to detail and creatively, capturing the inner beauty of everything produced. This beautiful rest emphasizes an artistic philosophy of total togetherness of body and mind. To mark this treasured link to intimacy, the Japanese have a strange, centuries-old custom: \u003cem\u003ebrushes and brush rests are often buried in a Buddhist temple or Shinto shrine\u003c\/em\u003e. The basis for this is that the Japanese believe Shodo artifacts have their own life and soul, and the scholar watches over their spirit in order to ensure their benevolence.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1970s","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30752436682852,"sku":"","price":45.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Crystal_Bead_Calligraphy_Brush_Fude.jpg?v=1571084782"},{"product_id":"japanese-signed-ohi-kogo-kougou-incense-container-chozaemon-x","title":"Japanese signed Ohi Kogo | Kougou Incense Container | Chozaemon X","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e2-0” dia. x 1-3\/8”h.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis incense container, (Kogo), used for the Japanese tea ceremony is in the traditional shape with a removable lid in the reddish-brown, amber glazed luster finish with signature on the bottom of the piece. This kogo sits comfortably in the hands of the holder and presents a fine play of textures and amber tones. It has a low foot-ring showing signature on the base of the foot-ring and is signed by \u003cstrong\u003eChozaemon X\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003cstrong\u003e           \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs the creators of fine pottery, the Chozaemon family of potters has been associated with the world of the Japanese tea ceremony since the 17th century. The Chozaemon lineage started with Hodoan (1631-1712), apprentice to the fourth heir of the Raku family of potters. In 1666, he accompanied Senso Shoshitsu, (1622-1697), the fourth heir of the Urasenke School of Japanese tea ceremony, to the city of Kanazawa, the capital of the Maeda clan’s province, Kaga (current Ishikawa prefecture). In the village of Ohi, the first Chozaemon established a kiln that continues producing superior tea ceremony wares, and since the Meiji Restoration ceramics for everyday living, are also produced.\u003cstrong\u003e                       \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent as originally made. “As is” and retains the original craft\/workmanship. Any discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage noted. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE: \u003c\/strong\u003eOhi ware is referred to as \"Wakigama\" (which is a general term for kilns used to make Raku ware that is outside of the Raku line), of the Kyoto Raku line. Ohi are made from fine quality earth and coated with a red-yellow glaze, commonly known as Ohi Amber glaze. Ohi ware is said to be the only current “Wakigama” with such lineage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs for the tea ceremony, (Sumidemae), the Kogo is brought into the room together with other tea ceremony utensils, along with the Sumitori charcoal container. The incense from the Kogo is placed in the charcoal fire to emit a nice fragrance. Usually, there are about three pieces in the Kogo incense container but only two are placed in the fire, one near the fire and a second one more distant from the fire to start burning later and have a continuous fragrance in the Chashitsu.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1987- 1989","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30904586829924,"sku":"","price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Ohi_Kogo_Chozaemon_X_1.jpg?v=1571499888"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-kamakura-bori-serving-tray-sea-bream-tai-motif-1","title":"Vintage Japanese Kamakura-bori Serving Tray | Sea Bream (tai) Motif","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 11-0”w x 15-1\/4”l\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Japanese red lacquered ovoid serving tray is carved in the \u003cstrong\u003esea bream\u003c\/strong\u003e motif, which is the Japanese fish symbol for the “\u003cstrong\u003ebounty of the sea\u003c\/strong\u003e”. There are several layers of different colors of red lacquer and black over deeply carved wood, which heightens the fluid appearance of the design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis tray was made of fine quality workmanship in both carving and lacquer work. The freeform shape of the bream tray is realistically represented by the carver who shows a great deal of attention to the distinctive face and fins of the fish. The fish is made of a single piece of wood. It is an extraordinary impression of a patina that only occurs within the ages of usage. This piece's natural beauty embodies the concept of the Japanese aesthetic that crystalizes within the notion of sabi, which describes the attraction of objects that came through age and natural use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent with exceptionally defined carving with numerous layers of lacquer giving depth to the finish. Retains the original craft\/workmanship without discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE: \u003c\/strong\u003eKamakura-bori is a type of lacquerware made in the area around the city of Kamakura in Kanagawa prefecture. The tradition dates back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333) when Tsuishu and Tsuikoku, thickly lacquered wooden objects, were imported from China alongside other artistic crafts. The style of the imported wares was later incorporated with Japanese arts and traditional patterns and Kamakura-bori was born. Initially, Kamakura-bori techniques were mainly applied to Buddhist statues and altar items. Under the influence of Chinese handicraft work, sculptors of Buddhist ritual implements and temple carpenters started to carve Japanese Judas trees or ginkgo into wooden wares and applied a lacquer finish to pieces that were given the name Kamakura-bori.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1920-1930s","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30904816894052,"sku":"","price":65.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/files\/JapaneseLacquerSea_Bream_Serving_Tray.jpg?v=1688511034"},{"product_id":"antique-japanese-bronze-and-mixed-metal-rooster-vase","title":"Antique Japanese Bronze and Mixed Metal Rooster Vase, Artist signed Mitsufune","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e7-1\/2”h x 2-3\/4” dia. at the shoulders\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePresented is a superb Japanese Moping shape bronze mixed metal inlay vase with rounded shoulders and a flared neck. The vase depicts a handsome rooster,(Onagadori), perched on a flowering cherry branch, highlighted in silver, gold, and copper, (\u003cstrong\u003e‘iroe takazogan’, ‘hirazogan’, and ‘shishiaibori\u003c\/strong\u003e). The longtail \u003cstrong\u003eOnagadori\u003c\/strong\u003e, was referred to as the “Most Honorable Fowl” with many legends, stories, and tales throughout the Taisho and Showa Periods. The Onagadori is considered a rare, purebred Natural Monument to avicultural breeding and is distinctive in that the main feathers grow through the lifetime of the rooster. The bronze has a rich dark patina and is very complementary to the bright silver and copper. \u003cstrong\u003eThe vase is signed on the side\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e in Kanji by the artist Mitsufune (engraved by Guangzhou)\u003c\/strong\u003e, and \u003c\/span\u003ethe mark on the underside is translated as ‘\u003cstrong\u003eCentral Purchasing Office’.\u003c\/strong\u003e This mark was used to indicate items sold during the occupation just after WWII. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very good and quite heavy, with the inlay all intact. Tonal variations of the metalwork, oxidation, and light surface wear. Some minor light wear to the metal surface that does not affect the design, and retains the original craft\/workmanship. Any discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage is noted. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE: \u003c\/strong\u003eMetalworking techniques had, of course, been brought to Japan from China and Korea even before the arrival of Buddhism. The first technology to reach Japan was that of casting bronze. Japan was fortunate enough to be blessed with rich natural resources of metals. As a result, domestic demand could be met entirely with domestic metal right up until the nineteenth century. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMetalworking involves an extraordinarily wide variety of techniques, among them, casting, forging, chasing, damascene work, and cloisonné, and most of them are still being practiced in Kyoto today. Kyoto metal Inlay, (zogan), is the generic term for the technique of inserting pieces of one or more materials into a base material, creating patterns of silver and gold, representing a multitude of motifs treasured during the period of production.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter Japan opened its doors to the West at the end of the Meiji Restoration, (1920), and with the introduction of the Dutch East Indian Trading Company, foreigners were greatly attracted by the intricate, sumptuous beauty of Japanese metal inlay. Whereas in the past, the craftsmen had applied their techniques to sword guards, they now applied them to accessories and personal effects. The most favored designs featured landscapes, fauna, images of bamboo, tigers, Mount Fuji, Cherry Blossoms, mythological subjects such as dragons, and depictions of beautiful women. It was during this period that metal inlay produced in Kyoto became known as Kyo-zogan.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1912 - 1946","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30904998756452,"sku":"","price":45.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/files\/AntiqueJapaneseBronzeandMixedMetalRoosterVase_ArtistsignedMitsufune.jpg?v=1727454349"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-bronze-ovoid-vase-signed","title":"JAPANESE ANTIQUE BRONZE OVOID VASE. Meiji Period. Signed","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e6-0”h x 5-0” Dia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOffered is a beautifully formed ovoid rustic vase. The neck, which gives height to the vase is shallow with a wide neck that flares out and beautifully flanked by a line of beads on the shoulders. The central motif is variegated orange holly leaves and berries in groups of three and executed in gold. \u003cspan id=\"lotData\" data-currency-code=\"USD\" data-lot-ref=\"9094920908\" data-member-id=\"0\" data-outbid=\"false\" data-pending=\"false\" data-bid-placed=\"false\" data-high-bidder=\"false\" data-is-timed=\"false\" data-ga-data=\"{}\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eUntranslated signature \u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eon the back.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan data-ga-data=\"{}\" data-is-timed=\"false\" data-high-bidder=\"false\" data-bid-placed=\"false\" data-pending=\"false\" data-outbid=\"false\" data-member-id=\"0\" data-lot-ref=\"9094920908\" data-currency-code=\"USD\" id=\"lotData\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eFaint surface wear from aging, otherwise no obvious mars or damages noted.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e Excellent color detailing and marbled patina, quite heavy, with \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eexceptional\u003c\/em\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003einlay fully intact and retains the original craft\/workmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE: \u003c\/strong\u003eAfter Japan opened its doors to the West at the end of the Meiji Restoration, (1920), and with the introduction of the Dutch East Indian Trading Company, foreigners were greatly attracted by the intricate, sumptuous beauty of Japanese metal inlay. Whereas in the past, the craftsmen had applied their techniques to sword guards, they now applied them to accessories and personal effects. The most favored designs featured landscapes, images of bamboo, Cherry Blossoms, barries, and all-natural flora.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1912-1926","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30905053806692,"sku":"","price":175.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/MeijiJapaneseBronzeOvoidVase.Signed.jpg?v=1660338664"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-celedon-nephrite-jade-koi-fish","title":"Vintage Japanese Celedon Nephrite Jade Koi Fish","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e3-0” h x 1-1\/2”w x 7-0”l\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe jade from which this is made shows beautifully carved details, (head, gils, fins and tail), of the stylized Koi\/Carp, which is quite expressive and shows highly skilled carving with excellent detail and nuance. The stone has a cloudy appearance with slight variations in the Celadon color. Celadon is a term for the jade green tones, also known as \u003cstrong\u003egreenware\u003c\/strong\u003e (the term specialists now tend to use). No indication of maker.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent condition, with a hard, cold, waxy feel to the overall surface. The craftsmanship is simply beautiful, with no cracks, chips or crazing. \u003cem\u003eThe surface does not scratch when tested.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE:\u003c\/strong\u003e Because the Chinese character for fish, (yu), is pronounced the same as the Chinese character for surplus, the fish symbol is frequently used to symbolize the wish for more in the sense of good luck, good fortune, long life, children, etc. Many of the attributes of the koi symbolize several lessons and are examples of trials individuals often encounter in life. The koi fish has a powerful and energetic life force which the Asian cultures cherish and strive to possess.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1912-1921","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30905175146596,"sku":"","price":240.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Nephrite_Jade_Koi_1.jpg?v=1571504108"},{"product_id":"antique-chinese-water-buffalo-horn-carving-daoist-immortal-figure","title":"Antique Chinese Buffalo Horn Carvings | Daoist Immortal Figures","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDimensions\u003c\/b\u003e: 9-0”h x 2-1\/4”w x 1-3\/4”d; 6-0”h x 1-3\/4”w x 1-1\/4”d\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOffered is a large and small single piece of carved Animal Horn that is unique and is based on the artist’s vision and the shape and color variations of the natural material. There is wonderful detail in both of these pieces from the tip of the horn to the bottom, in the form of two Daoist Immortals. Both are dressed in flowing robe and hat. The natural amber hue has great depth and variation throughout each piece as shown in the images. The pair has been mounted to a \u003cspan class=\"ILfuVd\" lang=\"en\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"hgKElc\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003epao tong\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e wood base to give them further stability and to set the scene. This set was purchased from the daughter of the Chew Family, Frances Marie, “aka Sister Mary Asha shown in the Center of this image), and her mother who was the last to operate the China Art Center in Caramel, California.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e: \u003ci\u003eExcellent condition\u003c\/i\u003e for each piece is perfect, with no chipping, missing elements, or color loss, and has been carefully preserved. A beautiful patinated finish, retaining the original craftsmanship. Meets the standards of the collector of the Chinese Daoist art genre.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAdditional Information\u003c\/b\u003e: \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHorn craft has a rich cultural heritage in Asia and \u003c\/span\u003eis the native home of buffalo horn, in which the animal is never killed or harmed to just harvest their horns. When a farmer’s water buffalo dies at the end of a long and productive life, the horns are harvested. They are never wasted because of their importance in medical practice and religious beliefs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to archeologists, horns, or more specifically buffalo carvings, were among the first materials utilized for both decorative and practical applications for hundreds of years. In China Horn was carved in the images of deities, mythological figures, and sacred animals as well as being left in their natural state so as to appreciate the colorations and natural characteristics of the material.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1910 (Quin Dynasty)","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30905203163236,"sku":"","price":80.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/BuffaloHornCarveing_pair.jpg?v=1658075087"},{"product_id":"antique-18th-century-chinese-export-porcelain-turquoise-glazed-rooster-cockerel","title":"Antique 20th Century Chinese Export-Porcelain, Turquoise Glazed Rooster (Cockerel)","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 10-0”h x 6-0”w x 3-1\/2”d\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe subject of this Stunningly large 20th-century (1950-60) Chinese Porcelain rooster with a lustrous turquoise glaze has a great deal of character. It welcomes the New Year in China since the 18th\/century and is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of the artisans who created this piece. This Chinese porcelain Rooster stands atop a heavily textured simulated rock form, in bright variegated turquoise glaze. The body is molded with plumage with intricately carved details, especially the feathers, feet, and cockscomb. The glazing is stunning giving depth to the entire piece. While many antique and vintage pieces glazed in Turquoise are typically monochrome, the textural quality of the crown and wattle together complement the turquoise gracefully. There is a red CHINA stamp on the interior of the figure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent with unusual painted detail work giving depth to the finish with damage to any part of the figurine. The piece retains the original craft\/workmanship. Any discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear or structural damage noted.         \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE\u003c\/strong\u003e: The origin of the Turquoise Glazed Cockerel can be traced back to the ancient civilizations of western Asia.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1950-1960","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30996134756452,"sku":"","price":190.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Turquoise_Glazed_Rooster_Cockerel__Left.jpg?v=1588012812"},{"product_id":"antique-18th-century-chinese-export-porcelain-turquoise-glazed-rooster-cockerel-1","title":"Antique 20th Century Chinese Export-Porcelain, Turquoise Glazed Rooster (Cockerel)","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: 10-1\/2”h x 6-0”w x 3-1\/2”d\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe subject of this Stunningly large 20th-century (1950-60) Chinese Porcelain rooster with a lustrous turquoise glaze has a great deal of character. It welcomes the New Year in China since the 18th\/century and is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of the artisans who created this piece. This Chinese porcelain Rooster stands atop a heavily textured simulated rock form, in bright variegated turquoise glaze. The body is molded with plumage with intricately carved details, especially the feathers, feet, and cockscomb. The glazing is stunning giving depth to the entire piece. While many antique and vintage pieces glazed in Turquoise are typically monochrome, the textural quality of the crown and wattle together complement the turquoise gracefully. There is an incised CHINA stamp on the bottom of the figure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent with unusual painted detail work giving depth to the finish with damage to any part of the figurine. The piece retains the original craft\/workmanship. Any discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear or structural damage noted.         \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE:\u003c\/strong\u003e The origin of the Turquoise Glazed Cockerel can be traced back to the ancient civilizations of western Asia.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1950-1960","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30996156514404,"sku":"","price":190.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Turquoise_Glazed_Rooster_Cockerel__Right.jpg?v=1588012848"},{"product_id":"japanese-hand-blown-frosted-sake-cup-contemporary-glass-by-aoki-tadashi-1997","title":"Japanese Hand Blown Frosted Sake Cup | Contemporary Glass by Aoki, Tadashi | 1997","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e1-1\/2”h x 2-3\/8” dia.                       \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe particular vessel is a small glass sake cup where the glass gives a frozen liquid appearance and when held up to the light the opaqueness beautifully collects, reflects, and amplifies the ambient light. This artist being Japanese views this transparent, hard material as foreign and somewhat exotic, and has only recently made sculptural and utilitarian glass part of everyday life. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis hand-blown white glass sake cup reflects a uniquely Japanese aesthetic, in which the transparent extraordinarily fluid natural material is the feature. The piece is smooth on the interior, with a textured exterior, with three tiny feet formed into the bottom giving it wonderful stability. This artist is known for functional one-of-a-kind works of art in which the frosting and cutting of glass make a beautiful piece that is tactile and wonderful to hold. Stand for display only and not included in this sale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent, original condition with no chips or cracks, “as is”, and retains the original craft\/workmanship. Any discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear or structural damage is noted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE:\u003c\/strong\u003e SAKE DRINKING: An enjoyable way of serving sake celebrates and its role as part of the aesthetic experience of a Japanese meal is to serve it cold as opposed to the traditional warm sake. Like many aspects of traditional eating and drinking in Japan, sake consumption has its own particular aesthetic and set of specialized serving, (\u003cstrong\u003eTokkuri),\u003c\/strong\u003e and drinking vessels, (\u003cstrong\u003eGuinomi\u003c\/strong\u003e) are common.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContemporary Sake drinkers treat drinking Sake it like white wine — serve it in glass as you would any crisp white wine. Japanese specialists recommend making smaller pours only because the Japanese feel this is more social and supports long conversation.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"2001","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31022561460324,"sku":"","price":95.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/files\/IMG_6921.jpg?v=1747351222"},{"product_id":"chinese-shiwan-shekwan-ware-wang-xizhi-holding-the-peach-of-immortality","title":"Antique Chinese Republic Shiwan (Shekwan) Pottery  | Wang Xizhi Holding the Peach of Immortality","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e2-3\/4”w x 7-0”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWang Xizhi served as a general and an imperial officer in the Jin Dynasty, and a famous calligrapher of the Eastern Jin Dynasty. He is still honored as ‘the’ calligraphy sage, generations later. Hence we see his representation in many forms. Experts have described his calligraphy as “the dragon jumping over the heavenly gate and the Tiger lying in the watchtower of the phoenix.” He was traditionally referred to as the ‘Sage of Calligraphy’.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis figure of Wang Xizhi is finished in a deep pomegranate red glaze. In the \u003cstrong\u003eQing\u003c\/strong\u003e period this color may have had further symbolism that could have hearkened back to the earlier period of bravery and loyalty to the ruling empire. Here we see him standing holding the “\u003cstrong\u003epeach of immortality\u003c\/strong\u003e”, having an expressive face and traditional beard for which he is known. In this particular example his shaved forehead had a symbolic meaning, particularly for men, as it represented virility, which additionally marked social or civil status. The piece has an impressed mark on the bottom, which says “\u003cstrong\u003eMade in China”\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece was purchased in a small town located in Guangdong province, China in 1985 from a scholar who specialized in the history and folklore embodied in Shiwan ware.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAntique Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is an extremely beautifully glazed figure in excellent condition: no chips or missing elements or repairs. “As is” and retains the original craft\/workmanship. Any discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear or structural damage noted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eNOTE: Overview and Characteristics of Shiwan Art Pottery \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs an important part of Chinese traditional culture, ceramic wares have a long history reflecting the customs of this ancient culture. One of the most famous types of ceramic works is called Shiwan (Shekwan) ware, which has been the shining star in Chinese folk ceramic art as early as the Tang and Song Dynasties (618-906AD), and which flourished in the Ming and Qing dynasties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eChinese Classical Shiwan ware is a type of traditional pottery that comes from the talented artists of a small town located in the south of China called Shiwan, in Foshan City, famous for its culture and pottery. Here craftsmen are well-known for their glazing techniques and unique forms. All the sculptural work is hand-formed, and sometimes involves numerous family members within a village, while directed by a master craftsman, \u003cb\u003eevery object is unique, and therefore, a limited edition\u003c\/b\u003e, which attracts art collectors the world over. The three largest collections of Shiwan Art Pottery are housed in the Hong Kong Fung Ping Shan Museum, and the Chinese Cultural Centre in San Francisco.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eOriginal Shiwan figurines, (1880-1940), are extremely rare because of the art\/craftsmanship and their delicate, fragile nature. The greater the detailing, the more likely the figure has been made by a master artist, hence the higher value. Also the larger the piece the more valuable, (8-0” or pieces over 20.0” tall) are extremely rare. The age of Shiwan ware can be verified by the \u003cb\u003emarkings\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eor lack of markings\u003c\/b\u003e, the fact that they are \u003cb\u003ehand-formed, depicting highly expressive figural forms and vivid imagery; primitive in sculpting techniques\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003edecorative elements associated with the figure\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe deep rich glazes infused with the piece\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe type of\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003eregional clay\u003c\/b\u003e (sandy, coarse clay is the oldest), and the \u003cb\u003estylistic differences\u003c\/b\u003e. Finally, pieces signed or stamped by the artist\/craftsman are rare. The oldest Shiwan pieces, prior to 1890, will not have a signature or stamp. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eDO NOT CONFUSE MUDMEN \/ MUD FIGURES WITH SHIWAN WARE!\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eThis unique artistic style made Shiwan ceramics extraordinarily splendid, (not to be confused with the export mud men, which were smaller figures made of mud-like clay forced into a mold and\/or finger-formed, and used as decorative additions to in bonsai, planters, and aquariums). These lack the expression, detail, and individuality of their glazed handmade counterparts). \u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e©\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e 2019 — Vermillion Publishing\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1890-1919","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31113128640612,"sku":"","price":225.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/2_Wang_Xizhi_1.jpg?v=1588013132"},{"product_id":"antique-chinese-shiwan-shekwan-ware-woman-with-lotus-flower","title":"Antique Chinese Republic Shiwan (Shekwan) Pottery  | Woman with Lotus flower","description":"\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e2-1\/2”w x 5-3\/4”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere we are featuring a very rare, beautiful mud figure with layered tones, and well-defined coloring. It depicts a young woman sitting and holding a lotus flower. The variegated blue and green glazing is beautifully executed. The piece shows meticulous craftsmanship. Her fingers are very elongated, with wonderful delicate details of the folds on her robe, headdress, and traditional hairstyle. Earrings finish her wardrobe, and complement her elegant nature. The piece has the impressed seal, \u003cstrong\u003e“CHINA”\u003c\/strong\u003e on the bottom, and indicates it was made between \u003cstrong\u003e1890-1919\u003c\/strong\u003e, after which time the mark changed. \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece was purchased in a small town located in Guangdong province, China in 1985 from a scholar who specialized in the history and folklore embodied in Shiwan ware.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAntique Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is an extremely beautifully glazed figure in excellent condition: no chips or missing elements or repairs. “As is” and retains the original craft\/workmanship. No discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear or structural damage noted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eNOTE: Overview and Characteristics of Shiwan Art Pottery \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs an important part of Chinese traditional culture, ceramic wares have a long history reflecting the customs of this ancient culture. One of the most famous types of ceramic works is called Shiwan (Shekwan) ware, which has been the shining star in Chinese folk ceramic art as early as the Tang and Song Dynasties (618-906AD), and which flourished in the Ming and Qing dynasties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eChinese classical Shiwan ware is a type of traditional pottery that comes from the talented artists of a small town located in the south of China called Shiwan, in Foshan City, famous for its culture and pottery. Here craftsmen are well-known for their glazing techniques and unique forms. All the sculptural work is hand-formed, and sometimes involves numerous family members within a village, while directed by a master craftsman, \u003cb\u003eevery object is unique, and therefore, a limited edition\u003c\/b\u003e, which attracts art collectors the world over. The three largest collections of Shiwan Art Pottery are housed in the Hong Kong Fung Ping Shan Museum, and the Chinese Cultural Centre in San Francisco.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eOriginal Shiwan figurines, (1880-1940), are extremely rare because the art\/craftsmanship and their delicate, fragile nature. The greater the detailing, the more likely the figure has been made by a master artist, hence the higher value. Also the larger the piece the more valuable, (8-0” or pieces over 20.0” tall) are extremely rare. The age of Shiwan ware can be verified by the \u003cb\u003emarkings\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eor lack of markings\u003c\/b\u003e, the fact that they are \u003cb\u003ehand-formed, depicting highly expressive figural forms and vivid imagery; primitive in sculpting techniques\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003edecorative elements associated with the figure\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe deep rich glazes infused with the piece\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe type of\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003eregional clay\u003c\/b\u003e (sandy, course clay is the oldest), and the \u003cb\u003estylistic differences\u003c\/b\u003e. Finally, pieces signed or stamped by the artist\/craftsman are rare. The oldest Shiwan pieces, prior to 1890, will not have a signature or stamp. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eDO NOT CONFUSE MUDMEN \/ MUD FIGURES WITH SHIWAN WARE!\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eThis unique artistic style made Shiwan ceramics extraordinarily splendid, (not to be confused with the export mud men, which were smaller figures made of mud-like clay forced into a mold and\/or finger-formed, and used as decorative additions to in bonsai, planters and aquariums). These lack the expression, detail, and individuality of their glazed handmade counterparts). \u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e©\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e 2019 — Vermillion Publishing\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1890-1919","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31113222586468,"sku":"","price":95.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Lady_w_Flower_1.jpg?v=1588013148"},{"product_id":"antique-chinese-rare-shiwan-shekwan-ware-li-tie-guai-with-gourd-qing-dynasty","title":"Antique Chinese Republic Shiwan (Shekwan) Pottery  | Li Tie Guai with Gourd | Qing Dynasty","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e3-1\/4” w x 9-1\/4”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis figure represents a legendary Chinese mythological character, known as a member of the eight immortals. He is benevolent to the poor, sick, and needy, whose suffering he eliminated with special medicine from his gourd. According to legend, one day he told his followers that his spirit was going to travel far away and to watch his body for seven days while he was gone. It was a big shock when the tired spirit returned home from his trip to find no place to go because his body had been cremated. Thus he became a beggar. Though all the other immortals are handsome, young, noble, and wise, Li TIE GUAI remains the most favored of the immortals. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis version of Li tie Guin shows him walking while carrying his brown glazed medicine gourd in a raised arm. His robe is exceptionally mottled in a blue “feather” glaze, with a white collar and trousers. The details of his unglazed face are exceptional, with white eyes, and detailed ears, and he exhibits a shaved forehead and queue, (hairpiece up in a bud). His face, hand, and legs are unglazed, and he is wearing traditional unornamented slippers. This piece has no incised mark or signature on the bottom and we were told it was a non-export piece. \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece was purchased in a small town located in Guangdong province, China in 1985 from a scholar who specialized in the history and folklore embodied in Shiwan ware. \u003cb\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003eBecause of its age and rarity, few are found in museums outside of China, and most are held in private collections in both that country and abroad.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAntique Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is an exceptionally glazed figure in excellent condition: no chips or missing elements or repairs. “As is” and retains the original craft\/workmanship. No discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage noted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eNOTE: Overview and Characteristics of Shiwan Art Pottery \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs an important part of Chinese traditional culture, ceramic wares have a long history reflecting the customs of this ancient culture. One of the most famous types of ceramic works is called Shiwan (Shekwan) ware, which has been the shining star in Chinese folk ceramic art as early as the Tang and Song Dynasties (618-906AD), and which flourished in the Ming and Qing dynasties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eChinese Classical Shiwan ware is a type of traditional pottery that comes from the talented artists of a small town located in the south of China called Shiwan, in Foshan City, famous for its culture and pottery. Here craftsmen are well-known for their glazing techniques and unique forms. All the sculptural work is hand-formed, and sometimes involves numerous family members within a village, while directed by a master craftsman, \u003cb\u003eevery object is unique, and therefore, a limited edition\u003c\/b\u003e, which attracts art collectors the world over. The three largest collections of Shiwan Art Pottery are housed in the Hong Kong Fung Ping Shan Museum, and the Chinese Cultural Centre in San Francisco.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eOriginal Shiwan figurines, (1880-1940), are extremely rare because of their art\/craftsmanship and their delicate, fragile nature. The greater the detailing, the more likely the figure has been made by a master artist, hence the higher value. Also the larger the piece the more valuable, (8-0” or pieces over 20.0” tall) are extremely rare. The age of Shiwan ware can be verified by the \u003cb\u003emarkings\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eor lack of markings\u003c\/b\u003e, the fact that they are \u003cb\u003ehand-formed, depicting highly expressive figural forms and vivid imagery; primitive in sculpting techniques\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003edecorative elements associated with the figure\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe deep rich glazes infused with the piece\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe type of\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003eregional clay\u003c\/b\u003e (sandy, coarse clay is the oldest), and the \u003cb\u003estylistic differences\u003c\/b\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTravelers or missionaries to the Orient would purchase the mud figures at local markets and carry them home. These were not stamped, because they were not for importation.  Also, you may find some pieces signed by the artist.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eDO NOT CONFUSE MUDMEN \/ MUD FIGURES WITH SHIWAN WARE!\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis unique artistic style made Shiwan ceramics extraordinarily splendid, (not to be confused with the export mud men, which were smaller figures made of mud-like clay forced into a mold and\/or finger-formed, and used as decorative additions to bonsai, planters, and aquariums). These lack the expression, detail, and individuality of their glazed handmade counterparts). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1890-1919","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31113253191780,"sku":"","price":575.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/files\/LiTieguaiw_Gourd_1.jpg?v=1687644998"},{"product_id":"antique-chinese-shiwan-shekwan-ware-su-wu-with-fan","title":"Antique Chinese Republic Shiwan (Shekwan) Pottery  | Su Wu with Fan","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e4-3\/4”w x 13-1\/2”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eSu Wu, courtesy name, Su Ziging, came from Duling and was a high-ranking minister known for his loyalty and sincerity. He was an attendant in his father’s military staff and was eventually appointed Leader of Court Gentlemen, entrusted with diplomatic missions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this extremely large figure, Su Wu is poised with his Blue glazed fan in his hand, which has nice detailing on the simulated bamboo handle. This was considered an instrument of dandyism in Chinese culture. He has cream-colored hair, beautifully and realistically detailed. The deep coloration of his garment is a mottled moss green, with accents of yellow ochre. Under his robe are yellow ochre pants. His face and hands have a cream-colored glaze. The final prominent feature is his large straw hat, (douli), meaning one-piece bamboo hat, in a textured, mottled brown. His brown-glazed slippers peep out from under his robe. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSu Wu’s steadfast loyalty to the Han was recounted in numerous songs, poems, and plays throughout Chinese history. In painting, he is most popularly depicted as a lonely shepherd tending his sheep, epitomizing his refusal to work for the enemy. There are two impressed stamps on the bottom of this figure, which are unidentified, indicating the piece was made before 1890. \u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis piece was originally purchased in a small town located in Guangdong province, China in 1985 and is from the Estate of Rudolph Schaeffer, (1886-1988) who headed the School of Art \u0026amp; Design in Chinatown \u0026amp; Potrero Hill San Francisco which closed in 1984. He had an extremely large collection of Chinese artifacts, particularly Shiwan Art pottery.\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cb\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eBecause of its age and rarity, few are found in museums outside of China, and most are held in private collections in both that country and abroad.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAntique Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is an exceptionally glazed figure in pristine condition: no chips or missing elements or repairs. “As is” and retains the original craft\/workmanship. Any discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage was noted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eNOTE: Overview and Characteristics of Shiwan Art Pottery \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs an important part of Chinese traditional culture, ceramic wares have a long history reflecting the customs of this ancient culture. One of the most famous types of ceramic works is called Shiwan (Shekwan) ware, which has been the shining star in Chinese folk ceramic art as early as the Tang and Song Dynasties (618-906AD), and which flourished in the Ming and Qing dynasties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eChinese classical Shiwan ware is a type of traditional pottery that comes from the talented artists of a small town located in the south of China called Shiwan, in Foshan City, famous for its culture and pottery. Here craftsmen are well-known for their glazing techniques and unique forms. All the sculptural work is hand-formed, and sometimes involves numerous family members within a village, while directed by a master craftsman, \u003cb\u003eevery object is unique, and therefore, a limited edition\u003c\/b\u003e, which attracts art collectors the world over. The three largest collections of Shiwan Art Pottery are housed in the Hong Kong Fung Ping Shan Museum, and the Chinese Cultural Centre in San Francisco.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eOriginal Shiwan figurines, (1880-1940), are extremely rare because of their art\/craftsmanship and their delicate, fragile nature. The greater the detailing, the more likely the figure has been made by a master artist, hence the higher value. Also the larger the piece the more valuable, (8-0” or pieces over 20.0” tall) are extremely rare. The age of Shiwan ware can be verified by the \u003cb\u003emarkings\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eor lack of markings\u003c\/b\u003e, the fact that they are \u003cb\u003ehand-formed, depicting highly expressive figural forms and vivid imagery; primitive in sculpting techniques\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003edecorative elements associated with the figure\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe deep rich glazes infused with the piece\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe type of\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003eregional clay\u003c\/b\u003e (sandy, course clay is the oldest), and the \u003cb\u003estylistic differences\u003c\/b\u003e. Finally, pieces signed or stamped by the artist\/craftsman are rare. The oldest Shiwan pieces, prior to 1890, will not have a signature or stamp. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eDO NOT CONFUSE MUDMEN \/ MUD FIGURES WITH SHIWAN WARE!\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eThis unique artistic style made Shiwan ceramics extraordinarily splendid, (not to be confused with the export mud men, which were smaller figures made of mud-like clay forced into a mold and\/or finger-formed, and used as decorative additions to bonsai, planters, and aquariums). These lack the expression, detail, and individuality of their glazed handmade counterparts). \u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e©\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e 2019 — Vermillion Publishing\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1890-1919","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31113326723172,"sku":"","price":325.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Zhong_Gui_w_Fan_1.jpg?v=1588013116"},{"product_id":"antique-chinese-shiwan-shekwan-ware-luohan-with-teabowl","title":"Antique Chinese Republic Shiwan (Shekwan) Pottery  | Luohan with Teabowl","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e2-1\/2”w x 5-3\/4”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShown is a very rare but simple image of \u003cstrong\u003eLuohan\u003c\/strong\u003e, (Follower who was commanded by Buddha to await the coming of Maitreya, the Future Buddha), seated on a wonderfully detailed stump, as he enjoys a cup of tea. The first element we notice is the great detailing of his expressive face, with an exact representation of his teeth and hands, with crossed, exposed legs, and slippers on his feet. The coloration of his robe is a variegated and textured blue tone with a well-defined teacup. During the Qing dynasty, the shaved forehead and queue, (hairpiece up or down), were symbolic of Manchu authority and its cultural dominance. This strong symbolic meaning, particularly for men, represented virility, which additionally marked social or civil status. It is believed that this piece was executed earlier in the century and was not made for export, in that there seems to be an unreadable and unrecognized mark on the interior of the piece. \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece was purchased in a small town located in Guangdong province, China in 1985 from a scholar who specialized in the history and folklore embodied in Shiwan ware. Because of its age and rarity, few are found in museums outside of China, and most are held in private collections both in that country and abroad.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAntique Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e This is an extremely beautifully glazed figure in excellent condition: no chips or missing elements or repairs. “As is” and retains the original craft\/workmanship. No discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage noted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eNOTE: Overview and Characteristics of Shiwan Art Pottery \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs an important part of Chinese traditional culture, ceramic wares have a long history reflecting the customs of this ancient culture. One of the most famous types of ceramic works is called Shiwan (Shekwan) ware, which has been the shining star in Chinese folk ceramic art as early as the Tang and Song Dynasties (618-906AD), and which flourished in the Ming and Qing dynasties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eChinese Classical Shiwan ware is a type of traditional pottery that comes from the talented artists of a small town located in the south of China called Shiwan, in Foshan City, famous for its culture and pottery. Here craftsmen are well-known for their glazing techniques and unique forms. All the sculptural work is hand-formed, and sometimes involves numerous family members within a village, while directed by a master craftsman, \u003cb\u003eevery object is unique, and therefore, a limited edition\u003c\/b\u003e, which attracts art collectors the world over. The three largest collections of Shiwan Art Pottery are housed in the Hong Kong Fung Ping Shan Museum, and the Chinese Cultural Centre in San Francisco.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003eOriginal Shiwan figurines, (1880-1940), are extremely rare because of the art\/craftsmanship and their delicate, fragile nature. The greater the detailing, the more likely the figure has been made by a master artist, hence the higher value. Also the larger the piece the more valuable, (8-0” or pieces over 20.0” tall) are extremely rare. The age of Shiwan ware can be verified by the \u003cb\u003emarkings\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eor lack of markings\u003c\/b\u003e, the fact that they are \u003cb\u003ehand-formed, depicting highly expressive figural forms and vivid imagery; primitive in sculpting techniques\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003edecorative elements associated with the figure\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe deep rich glazes infused with the piece\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe type of\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003eregional clay\u003c\/b\u003e (sandy, coarse clay is the oldest), and the \u003cb\u003estylistic differences\u003c\/b\u003e. Finally, pieces signed or stamped by the artist\/craftsman are rare. The oldest Shiwan pieces, prior to 1890, will not have a signature or stamp. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p2\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eDO NOT CONFUSE MUDMEN \/ MUD FIGURES WITH SHIWAN WARE!\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eThis unique artistic style made Shiwan ceramics extraordinarily splendid, (not to be confused with the export mud men, which were smaller figures made of mud-like clay forced into a mold and\/or finger-formed, and used as decorative additions to in bonsai, planters, and aquariums). These lack the expression, detail, and individuality of their glazed handmade counterparts). \u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e©\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e 2019 — Vermillion Publishing\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1890","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31113349234788,"sku":"","price":145.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Luohan_w_teabowl_1.jpg?v=1588013052"},{"product_id":"chinese-shiwan-shekwan-ware-mother-and-child","title":"Antique Chinese Republic Shiwan (Shekwan) Pottery  | Amah and Child","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e2-0”w x 4-3\/4”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShown is a wonderful mud figure representing a caregiving tradition showing an Amah, (nanny), going to town to shop. She is carrying a baby and has a nicely fashioned umbrella, to provide shelter, should it rain. The glazes are standard for Shiwan ware, utilizing blue, green, brown, and yellow ochre. The detailing is quite, intricate showing body features, (baby’s foot is hanging out of the carrier). \u003cspan\u003eThe piece has an impressed seal “\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCHINA\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e” on the bottom indicating this piece was made between 1890-1919. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eThis piece was purchased in a small town located in Guangdong province, China in 1985 from a scholar who specialized in the history and folklore embodied in Shiwan ware.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe carrier or sling in China was known as \u003cstrong\u003eMei Tai,\u003c\/strong\u003e and was simply a piece of square or rectangular fabric. The panel is generally the aesthetic and symbolic focus of the whole baby carrier. Baby carriers are customarily embellished with designs and decorations through the use of a broad range of embroidery techniques. Silk, often hand spun, is usually used for the fine embroidery, as represented on this mud figure. The foundation materials can be silk, cotton, hemp or flax.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe custom of carrying a baby on either the Amah's, (household aid), an extended family member, or farm laborers back developed when a mother had to continue to do her house work or farming work without leaving the baby alone on bed or crawl around the house. Baby carriers are ideal for busy parents and for babies love to be close to their Mothers. Traditional working mothers who had to attend to their young babies, lead to a new division of labor between men and women.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAntique Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e This piece has beautiful glazing in excellent condition: no chips or missing elements or repairs. “As is” and retains the original craft\/workmanship. Any discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear or structural damage noted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eNOTE: Overview and Characteristics of Shiwan Art Pottery\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eAs an important part of Chinese traditional culture, ceramic wares have a long history reflecting the customs of this ancient culture. One of the most famous types of ceramic works is called Shiwan (Shekwan) ware, which has been the shining star in Chinese folk ceramic art as early as the Tang and Song Dynasties (618-906AD), and which flourished in the Ming and Qing dynasties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eChinese classical Shiwan ware is a type of traditional pottery that comes from the talented artists of a small town located in the south of China called Shiwan, in Foshan City, famous for its culture and pottery. Here craftsmen are well-known for their glazing techniques and unique forms. All the sculptural work is hand-formed, and sometimes involves numerous family members within a village, while directed by a master craftsman, \u003cb\u003eevery object is unique, and therefore, a limited edition\u003c\/b\u003e, which attracts art collectors the world over. The three largest collections of Shiwan Art Pottery are housed in the Hong Kong Fung Ping Shan Museum, and the Chinese Cultural Centre in San Francisco.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003eOriginal Shiwan figurines, (1880-1940), are extremely rare because the art\/craftsmanship and their delicate, fragile nature. The greater the detailing, the more likely the figure has been made by a master artist, hence the higher value. Also the larger the piece the more valuable, (8-0” or pieces over 20.0” tall) are extremely rare. The age of Shiwan ware can be verified by the \u003cb\u003emarkings\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003cb\u003eor lack of markings\u003c\/b\u003e, the fact that they are \u003cb\u003ehand-formed, depicting highly expressive figural forms and vivid imagery; primitive in sculpting techniques\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003edecorative elements associated with the figure\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe deep rich glazes infused with the piece\u003c\/b\u003e; \u003cb\u003ethe type of\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003eregional clay\u003c\/b\u003e (sandy, course clay is the oldest), and the \u003cb\u003estylistic differences\u003c\/b\u003e. Finally, pieces signed or stamped by the artist\/craftsman are rare. The oldest Shiwan pieces, prior to 1890, will not have a signature or stamp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eDO NOT CONFUSE MUDMEN \/ MUD FIGURES WITH SHIWAN WARE!\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eThis unique artistic style made Shiwan ceramics extraordinarily splendid, (not to be confused with the export mud men, which were smaller figures made of mud-like clay forced into a mold and\/or finger-formed, and used as decorative additions to in bonsai, planters and aquariums). These lack the expression, detail, and individuality of their glazed handmade counterparts). \u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e©\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cb\u003e 2019 — Vermillion Publishing\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1900","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31113365487716,"sku":"","price":165.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Mother_Child_2.jpg?v=1588012993"},{"product_id":"japanese-double-extension-paulownia-wood-ikebana-vase-nijugiri-style","title":"Japanese Double Extension Paulownia Wood Ikebana Container | Nijugiri Style","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e15-0” h x 5-1\/4”dia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis beautiful and rare piece of carved Paulownia wood retains its rough natural texture with its original copper liners. The artist went through great lengths to depict the nuances of the expressive wood, as seen in the natural texture of the surface, the shaped\/cut out portions supporting multiple levels of arrangements, the black lacquering of the edges and on the bottom of the container. It has retained its original wood twig for stabilizing flower arrangements. This is an exceptional piece, supporting creative arrangements by the Ikebana artist.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVintage Condition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Excellent, original condition with no splitting, cracking or loss of material. “As is”, and retains the original craft\/workmanship. Any discoloration, surface wear, or structural damage is noted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eNOTE\u003c\/b\u003e: “The Way of Flowers” is a delicate, refined practice where nature becomes the foundation of sculptural art pieces known for their simplicity. The Japanese believe that the vessel is key to properly arranging branches, blossoms, and leaves, and the container will strengthen the designer ability to be more liberated to experiment, and be more creative and emotionally expressive with their designs.  \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1930s","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31126877765732,"sku":"","price":62.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Ikebana_Paulownia_Vase_1.jpg?v=1588013681"},{"product_id":"vintage-chinese-carved-wood-display-stand-with-serpentine-legs","title":"Antique Chinese Carved Huanghuali Wood Display Stand with Serpentine Legs","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/b\u003e4-1\/2”l x 3-1\/4”w x 2-2\/8”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Chinese carved wood stand features an oval form with a pierced skirt,\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e(apron), around the top platform edge of the stand with a stylized Ruyi motif. There are four Serpentine legs which are beautifully integrated into the carved skirt, (Apron). The platform has a recessed center for a previously owned object but is simple enough to accept other pieces of artwork. The stand was finished with a coating of dark lacquer, now beautifully weathered from a century of use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChinese Huanghuali furniture is extremely rare and highly coveted, and refers to all furniture made from the yellowish-red wood of the Huanghuali tree. Huanghuali is a type of rosewood originally referred to as “\u003cb\u003ehuali\u003c\/b\u003e.\" “Huang,\" meaning “yellow,\" refers to the yellowish tone that is adopted by the wood after prolonged exposure to sunlight. Huanghuali wood furniture is not only distinctive by the beautiful color, but also by the sweet aroma when cut. Due to its popularity, however, the slow-growing Huanghuali tree now hangs on the brink of extinction and all new creation of furniture and decorative arts from its wood is now forbidden.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHistorical Information:\u003c\/b\u003e Antique decorative stands were used from ancient times to the present to celebrate and present beautiful art objects and served to bring esteemed objects into more prominent light and bring esteemed objects into more prominent light. As with stands like the piece being offered are a favorite for display — Stand that are rough in textural carving to those that have a silky smooth texture, with the matted or richly toned surfaces have always been considered pleasing both to the touch and eye and not meant to be more important than the piece for which it is presenting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy the late Ming period, the pairing of objects to stands of suitable style and size had become an important aesthetic objective. These beautiful stand forms were made from a wide variety of materials, including metals, ceramics, wood, bamboo, root, and stone with lacquer being preferred. Today these miniaturized stands hewn from a single block of hardwood have survived.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCondition:\u003c\/b\u003e Exceptional impressive, and beautiful. There are no chips, cracks, breaks, fading, or color distortion, and it retains its original details and aged\/patinated finish.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Early 20th Century","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31391931596900,"sku":"","price":68.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/IMG_1097.jpg?v=1578085534"},{"product_id":"antique-japanese-open-front-farmers-vest-noragi-vest","title":"Antique Bori - Japanese Open Front Farmer's Vest | Noragi Vest","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/b\u003e 15-0” at the shoulders x 23-0” long\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis wonderful bori garment embodies the indispensable Japanese concept of “mottainai”, or not wasting fabric, and when one can prolong the cloth’s useful life through recycling and reuse. This 100% homemade, hand-woven dyed indigo cotton vest is constructed from Indigo blue, camel, and orange color homespun cotton fabrics and is characterized by its single patchwork and mended assembly. Although, as with this vest the blue-dyed fabric changed color into shades of beautiful lighter blue(s) as it naturally faded through washing and wearing. It has open sides with straps that provide for a flexible fit—beautiful\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e use of original fabric combined for a true work of art.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAntique Condition:\u003c\/b\u003e Overall Good Condition for its age, strong Indigo fabrics nicely woven garment with one 4”x2” brown patch on the back shoulder as originally re-constructed. “As is” and retains the original craft\/workmanship. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNOTE: \u003c\/b\u003eJapanese women carefully unstitched old futon covers, worn-out garments, and other ragged household textiles to recycle and remake the usable fragments to give them a refreshed “\u003cstrong\u003eNoragi\u003c\/strong\u003e” appeal.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Japanese believed that indigo mirrored the hue of the oceans surrounding the Japanese islands, a symbolic concept that was both culturally and economically important to every Japanese. Indigo dye was favored for its ability to hold the deep blue color in the fabric after many years of use. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis sewing tradition was passed down from mother to daughter, from generation to the next, and was part of the basic homemaking repertoire of every Japanese farmer's or fisherman's wife. \u003cem\u003eSee our book section for a book pictured in this listing entitled: \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBoro: Rags and Taters from the Far North of Japan by Yukiko Koide \u0026amp; Kyoichi Tsuzuki. https:\/\/mingeiarts.com\/products\/boro-rags-and-taters-from-the-far-north-of-japan-authors-yukiko-koide-kyoichi-tsuzuki.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Meiji Period (1868-1912)","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31397082529892,"sku":"","price":240.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Noragi_Vest_1.jpg?v=1578857918"},{"product_id":"japanese-daruma-ink-paste-box-bronze-bodhidharma-shuniko","title":"Japanese Daruma Ink Paste Box | Bronze Bodhidharma","description":"\u003cp\u003eDimensions: 2-3\/8”w x 2-1\/2”h x ¾”d\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe see the Bodhidharma, (Daruma), the image on many scholars writing desks as one of the key elements in calligraphy.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eOne such piece is the ink paste box, (Shuniko), shown offered in this sale which is used in combination with a \u003cb\u003ehanko\u003c\/b\u003e, or seal, (shiiru). The Japanese do not use signatures but instead, use seals with the person’s name in kanji.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe current popular symbolism associated with Daruma is as a good luck charm in part originating with the Daruma-dera, (Temple of Daruma), in the city of Takasaki, (Gunma Prefecture), north of Tokyo.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis particular item is made of Bronze, (Shibuishi), fully carved with wonderful detail and expression in the likeness of Daruma. The piece separates to allow access to the red ink paste. There is an i\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003empressed makers seal on the back.\u003c\/span\u003e The piece has its original kiriwood box and is identified and signed by the artist. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eVintage Condition:\u003c\/b\u003e Excellent and quite heavy, Retains the original craft\/workmanship. Any discoloration, surface wear, or structural damage is noted. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNOTE:\u003c\/b\u003e Bodhidharma, (Daruma), was a Buddhist monk who lived during the 5th\/6th century CE. He is traditionally credited as the transmitter of Ch’an (Zen) to China. According to one tradition, Bodhidharma gained a reputation for, among other things, his practice of wall-gazing. Legend claims that he sat facing a wall in meditation for a period of nine years without moving, which caused his legs to fall off from atrophy. Another popular legend is that after falling asleep during his nine-year meditation he became angry with himself and cut off his eyelids to avoid ever falling asleep again.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1926-1989","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31455150866532,"sku":"","price":65.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Bronze_Daruma_Ink_Box_1.jpg?v=1580247540"},{"product_id":"houan-nakazato-lobed-tea-cup-set-contemporary-japanese-pottery-by-taroemon-xiii","title":"Vintage Japanese Lobed Tea Cup Set by Nakazato Tarouemon XIV","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDimensions\u003c\/b\u003e: 3-1\/8” h x 3-0”dia \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a \"rare\" opportunity to obtain a set of five-lobed Tea Cups created by \u003cstrong\u003eTarouemon XIV\u003c\/strong\u003e. Born in 1957, Nakazato Tarouemon XIV, currently the Nakazato family's 14th generation, inherits the rich legacy of Karatsu ceramics and of his family. Surrounded by Karatsu ware from the day he was born, he took over his family's kiln in 1983.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePurchased from\u003cb\u003e \u003c\/b\u003ethe Nakazato family kiln in Karatsu, on the Southern Island of Kyushu, these beautiful-shaped cups for “matcha” tea, each have a varied warm grey glaze finish that shows confidence in the firing, affording uniqueness of each piece, and creates an expressive individual production line cup. It is said that after use, each cup will gradually change its landscape from the type of tea being served.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach bowl has a darker raised base celebrating not only the vessel, but the clay foundation which gives it an unmistakable “\u003cstrong\u003edatsuzoku\u003c\/strong\u003e”, (surprise), look and feel to each piece. Irregularities and color changes of the glaze through the firing process are highly prized and considered one of a kind, and often celebrated in teaware. The side of the base shows the mark, (\u003cstrong\u003eKamajirushi\u003c\/strong\u003e), of \u003cstrong\u003eNakazato Toroemon XIV. \u003c\/strong\u003eThe Kiriwood box in which the set is housed has the markings and the impressed stamp is proof of their authenticity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional Information\u003c\/strong\u003e: During feudal Japan, trades that enjoyed special favors from feudal lords and shoguns held esteemed status. In the Nakazato family, it was customary for the child inheriting the trade to adopt not only the family surname but also the unchanged given name of the father. The Nakazato clan, renowned for their prowess in pottery, received patronage from successive feudal lords of Karatsu, thus maintaining the tradition of passing down both the family and given names. \u003cspan class=\"normal\" size=\"-1\" face=\"Arial,Helvetica,Geneva,Sans-serif,sans-serif\" style=\"font-family: Arial, Helvetica, Geneva, sans-serif, sans-serif;\"\u003eThe Nakazato family is one of Japan's greatest treasures and is one reason for the wonderful ceramic traditions that abound here today. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCondition:\u003c\/b\u003e Excellent condition as produced by the artist. This beautiful set retains the original craft\/workmanship. No discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNOTE:\u003c\/b\u003e You may wonder why five (5) teacups are in this set. In Japan, odd numbers are considered auspicious. The number five holds tremendous significance in nearly all Buddhist traditions including the tea ceremony. The five elements of Esoteric Buddhism are combined with one additional element in Japanese culture, the MIND, for a total of six. This \u003cb\u003emudra\u003c\/b\u003e, (ritual\/spiritual gesture), symbolizes the unity of the five worldly elements with a six-element, spiritual consciousness. Only by adding the sixth element are the five brought to life. Without the sixth element, ordinary eyes see only the differentiated forms or appearances.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eEach has a relationship to the tea ceremony and is incorporated into the whole experience in the use of odd-numbered items.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEarth\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFire\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAir (or Wind)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpace\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMIND (spiritual consciousness or perception)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e","brand":"2003","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31510638985316,"sku":"","price":58.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Nakazatoteauptset.jpg?v=1668898395"},{"product_id":"japonisme-and-the-rise-of-the-modern-art-movement-the-arts-of-the-meiji-period-by-gregory-irvine","title":"Japonisme and the Rise of the Modern Art Movement The Arts of the Meiji Period by Gregory Irvine","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDimensions\u003c\/b\u003e: 9.8” x 13.5” x 1.2 “\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis hardcover book has 240 pages with 220 illustrations in color and black and white that surveys from the 1860s to the 1890s, the rise of Japonisme and the Art Nouveau movement meant few could ignore or resist the obsession with all things Japanese. Superbly crafted and often highly decorated Japanese objects—lacquer, metalwork, ceramics, enamels, and other decorative items—stimulated and inspired Western artists and craftsmen to produce their own works. Arts of the Meiji period (1868–1912) were displayed at international exhibitions, in the galleries of influential dealers, and at fashionable stores.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eArtists from van Gogh, Whistler, Monet, and Edouard Manet to Klimt and Schiele were all, to varying degrees, influenced by the Japanese art. Van Gogh himself stated that he owed his inspiration to Japanese art, but he was probably not conscious of the full extent to which art in Europe had already been influenced by that of Japan.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e Published in 2003.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eVintage Condition: \u003c\/b\u003eExcellent, New, and in the original shrink wrap, spine unbroken.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNOTE: \u003c\/b\u003eGregory Irvine, Senior Curator in the Asian department of the Victoria and Albert Museum, has published widely on many aspects of Japanese art, and has held senior teaching positions both in the UK and Japan. There are also essays by Tayfun Belgin, John House, Axel Rüger,  Kris Schiermeir, and Hiroko Yokomizo. He lives in London.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Mingei Arts","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32081268932708,"sku":"","price":25.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/JaponismeandtheRiseoftheModernArtMovement.jpg?v=1665531773"},{"product_id":"japanese-lacquer-incense-tray-murakami-tetsudo","title":"Vintage Japanese Kamakura-bori Lacquer Tray | Murakami Tetsudō | Meiji Era","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDimensions: 15-1\/2”l x 12-0”w x 3\/4”h\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAttributed to \u003cstrong\u003eMurakami Tetsudō\u003c\/strong\u003e, (1868–1912); this creative piece of lacquerware was s\u003cspan\u003epecifically made for use during the tea ceremony.\u003c\/span\u003e It illustrates a striking floral and curling lotus leaf motif with red and black lacquer in the style of \u003cstrong\u003eKamakura-bori\u003c\/strong\u003e and represents an incense tray of three-dimensional beauty. The craftsman employed what is known as\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eTakamakie \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e(high relief): the design is made with multiple lacquer layers, creating a sculptural effect and polished to the desired effect.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sides of the back are curved with a flat, recessed center in black lacquer. There is a small paper label on the back with identification in Japanese and executed in old kanji which we have not been able to translate. At purchase, we were told that the piece was not meant for export. Thus it is unsigned. As retired academics and dealers of Japanese Folk Art, we were brought to Tokyo by a colleague and Professor from Bunka Gakuen University in Tokyo, where we purchased this Incense tray from an antique dealer while on a visit to the Takayama, a region in 1989. In thirty years of business, we have only seen two other trays at auction attributed to this artisan. The display stand is part of this sale.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAntique Condition.\u003c\/b\u003e In Excellent condition commensurate with age. The exceptional quality of carving with no scratches, flake-offs, cracks, missing carved elements, or imperfections. \"Slight\" warpage that does not affect use, appreciation, or display (see image three). \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNOTE:\u003c\/b\u003e Born in Komatsu City, Ishikawa Prefecture, \u003cstrong\u003eMurakami Tetsudō\u003c\/strong\u003e is best known for elaborate, detailed sculptures and festival floats depicting mythological subjects that are still preserved in the locality. He traveled to the United States in 1893 to exhibit a sculpture of the medieval hero Nitta Yoshisada at the Chicago World's Columbian Exhibition and on return, he acquired a position at the Toyama Prefectural Craft School in Takaoka later becoming its principal. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Meiji (early 1900s)","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34930557747355,"sku":"","price":380.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/IMG_0288.jpg?v=1594255407"},{"product_id":"pair-of-antique-japanese-inlaid-bronze-baluster-vase-with-snowy-egret-decoration-in-gold-and-silver","title":"Pair of Antique Japanese Inlaid Bronze Baluster Vase with Snowy Egret Decoration in gold and silver","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e: 5-3\/8”h x 2-1\/2”dia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOffered is a pair of Meiji-era Japanese Peanut Butter Bronze Vases, each of tapered ovoid form with a narrow and beautifully fashioned ringed neck, everted rim, and circular pedestal base. Each incorporates \u003cstrong\u003eShakudō\u003c\/strong\u003e,\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003ean incredibly complex and tedious process, which involves delicate patience and diligence and whose use was expanded during the Meiji era (1868 to 1912).\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHon-zogan\u003c\/strong\u003e, (flush inlay) details in gold, and silver, and brings the artwork alive and depicts standing snowy egrets, (two flying on one vase and two forging amid reeds in a stream on the other). The pieces are unsigned which is because, during the early part of this era, artists were more interested in the excellence of their creations rather than personal recognition. Later such artifacts were signed because of the exportation of art objects throughout the world. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Stand\u003c\/strong\u003e — An antique rosewood stand that is included was used from ancient times to the present to celebrate and present beautiful objects and served to bring esteemed objects into more prominent light. As with this stand the root of boxwood or its facsimile was a favorite for display — This stand has a silky smooth texture and richly toned surface that is pleasing both to the touch and eye.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e: Excellent, original condition with no scratches and beautifully detailed images and commensurate with age. The pieces have not been cleaned or polished and left as found.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1868-1912","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":35719193460891,"sku":"","price":1030.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/files\/PairofAntiqueJapaneseInlaidBronzeBalusterVasewithSnowyEgret.jpg?v=1727382006"},{"product_id":"japanese-antique-kiri-wood-tabako-bon-hardwood-tobacco-smoking-box-taisho-period","title":"Japanese Antique Tabako Bon | Hardwood Tobacco Smoking Box | Taisho Period","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e10-3\/4”h x \u003c\/span\u003e6-3\/4\"w x 6-3\/4\"d \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis personal, small \u003cstrong\u003eTabako\u003c\/strong\u003e set is made of Kiri wood with lovely grain, half-lap, or finger joints held in place with wooden pegs. The piece slightly tapers from top to bottom giving it wonderful visual balance. It has one small drawer with a delicate hand-fashioned pull, protruding from the surface. The most decorative wood element on the piece is a shaped natural bamboo handle held in place with brass nails. It contains one essential component: a \u003cstrong\u003eporcelain blue and white hibachi\u003c\/strong\u003e for keeping coals lit and for dowsing spent ashes. Additionally, the original \u003cstrong\u003eKiseru pipe\u003c\/strong\u003e with a brass Hazara, (bowl); Gankubi Goose neck shank; Rau Stem; and Kuchimoto Lip with Suikuchi Mouthpiece which has been preserved as part of the set, (As tobacco-shredding techniques became more refined, pipe-bowls grew smaller, and pipe-stems were shortened, resulting in a more readily portable personal accessory).\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e: Excellent remarkable condition, fully intact, as hand-crafted initially which suggests a slight degree of wear that corresponds to its vintage and meets all the standards of the collectible furniture of the period. This is often treasured by collectors of smoking memorabilia.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1912-1926","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":35832288641179,"sku":"","price":145.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/IMG_0642.jpg?v=1599431446"},{"product_id":"guinomi-japanese-glass-sake-cup-contemporary","title":"Guinomi | Japanese glass Sake cup | Contemporary","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/b\u003e3-0\"dia x 1-1\/2\"h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGreat for cold Sake - 200.00 Gram capacity. The thin rim gives a smoother texture and wonderful to hold and touch. Bubbles and waves motif in a variegated green and celery coloration. Nice weight with the short ringed foot. Comes with a\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003efloral hand-crafted cotton coaster. This sake cup is handmade by an experienced craftsman in the region of Tsugaru, Aomori prefecture.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e As purchased with no chips or dings.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1998","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":35843329654939,"sku":"","price":18.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/IMG_0649.jpg?v=1599502739"},{"product_id":"japanese-antique-noh-ko-omote-mask-noh-onna-mask-for-theatre-performance","title":"Japanese Antique Noh Ko-Omote Mask  | Noh Onna Mask for Theatre Performance","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/b\u003e8-1\/2”l x 5-1\/4”w x 2-1\/2”d\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNot masks are considered as the ultimate technical challenge and a spiritual quest for Noh mask carvers. This particular mask is made of carved, solid wood, Hinoki, (cypress), showing traditional chisel by chisel carvings simultaneously in front-and-backside of the mask, with the eyes, (pupil cut out to facilitate seeing) and shaved eyebrows, nostrils and mouth, (cut out for breathing), and painted to crate expressive facial features, red lips and blackened teeth (older woman), with a final coat of black lacquer for her “neat” hair. The original ties with brass fittings remain attached to the sides of her face which are used to hold the mask in place over the actors face, (also when tied facilitates hanging the mask for display allowing the decorative brass ends to be seen while accenting the piece). It comes in its original silk\/damask pouch for storage when not in use. The piece is unsigned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJapanese theatre has 60 types of \u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNoh\u003c\/i\u003e masks (called \u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003enoh-men\u003c\/i\u003e or \u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eomote\u003c\/i\u003e) often with subtle variations in expression \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ewhich are\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e traditionally played by men.\u003c\/span\u003e Noh masks are also used in traditionally local festivals or Shinto rituals seasonally held in Japan. The types  masks of Onna - Woman emphasize and stylize the facial expressions are as follows:\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cul data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFukai - used to represent a woman in grief.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eKo-omote or Kohime - a young woman with a slight smile,(literally, \"little mask\") conveys the Heian beauty of a girl not yet twenty.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMasukami - used to represent a female deity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eUba - an impressive mask portraying the face of an old woman.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eWaka-onna - this mask represents the standards of classical beauty during the medieval period.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eZoh-onna - a young woman with a neutral expression.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition: \u003c\/b\u003eVery good condition and commensurate with age.\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/b\u003eThe carved wood is in original condition with accents of Polychrome pigments. External painted areas remain naturally aged showing the graining of the wood. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNOTE: \u003c\/b\u003e Omoto masks supports the actors ability to communicate through posture, body movement, and vocal control, whose perfection requires years of intense training.  Although the masks prevent the actor from using facial expression, the most expertly carved masks are made to express different emotions at different angles, so that he actor can change facial expression by the direction and tilting of the head.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Showa - 1945","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":36199082360987,"sku":"","price":40.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/NohKo-OmoteMask_1.jpg?v=1601401181"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-sashi-netsuke-stag-antler-and-manju-ojime","title":"Vintage Japanese Sashi-Netsuke | Stag Antler and Manju Ojime","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/b\u003eHorn-3-1\/4”l; Ojime-1-3\/4”dia\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eJapanese Sashi-Netsuke natural tip of a deer antler, called \u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003esashi-netsuke\u003c\/b\u003e, is made of a young deer’s antlers, with a beautiful natural horn dark brown patina. in the thicker part (the crown) of the antler with a cord attaching to the Ojime. This type of netsuke with its carved wood Manju Ojime, (Kiyomizu-Dera Temple and flora scene) was stuck between the windings of the man’s obi (sash) and considered part of the \u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSagemono\u003c\/b\u003e kimono fittings.\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e: Excellent condition and beautiful Japanese artistry and functional design. Retains the original natural patina, craft\/workmanship, having no discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAdditional Information:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Japanese, primarily before 1947, had a history of utilizing rare and historic animal bones and rare woods for many objects used by the samurai and upper classes at that time. Many of these art objects fell under the Okimono's decorative category, including Netsuke, Brooches, Hair Ornaments, functional objects as musical instruments, and furniture seen throughout this earlier part of history. A new dialogue during the Meiji period between Japan, (not China) and the West led to a concern for protecting many rare materials incorporated into art and craft practices. This changed to address customer interests and the changing ESA laws throughout the world influenced all production of art goods from this date forward. Any object being sold that falls into the endangered species category must be at least 100 years or older and substantiated by the signature and date on the piece for by radiocarbon dating.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Edo period, first half 19th century","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39992828166333,"sku":"","price":47.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/StagantlerNetsuke.jpg?v=1623460213"},{"product_id":"late-meiji-japanese-kutani-porcelain-daruma-bodhidharma-okimono","title":"Late Meiji Japanese Kutani Porcelain Daruma | Bodhidharma Okimono","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/b\u003e8-0”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis gorgeous Japanese Kutani porcelain Okimono and made in the image of Dharma\/Bodhidharma from \u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eArita\u003c\/b\u003e, now Saga prefecture. The figure is draped in a long flowing Kutani rust-colored robe with Cowl (hood), in a stylized yellow, turquoise, and purple cloud motif interspersed throughout the garment and with celadon undergarments (all of the standard five colors, blue, green, yellow, purple, and red. He is holding a gold and black \u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRuyi Nyoi Scepter\u003c\/b\u003e, (a curved decorative object that serves as a talisman symbolizing power and good fortune in Asian folklore) in his right hand. He has delicately detailed whiskers and chest hair, with a gold earloop in his large and exaggerated left ear. His facial details are wonderfully executed and very expressive. Unsigned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Daruma is the founder of Zen Buddhism and is traditionally used in Japanese culture to symbolize one’s goals, actions, and outcomes.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/b\u003e  Excellent with no chips or cracks or fading of colors. Kutani has been passed onto generations because of its significance and expressive porcelain colors.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNOTE\u003c\/b\u003e: \u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eKutani ware\u003c\/b\u003e, with the name “Old Kutani” (Ko-Kutani), refers to porcelain decorated with heavily applied overglaze enamels and produced in the Kaga mountain village of Kutani. The powerful Maeda family had established a kiln there by 1656. The clay bodies used were gray and coarse-grained. On most pieces—dishes and bowls were especially common—a white or blue-white matte glaze was decorated in dark, restrained colors, initially greens, yellows, and some reds, and later purples and dark blues. Some items had cobalt blue decorations under a white glaze. The most noted Old Kutani pieces are “Green Kutani,” in which most of the surface is covered in a green or blue-green glaze to which one or two colors have been added (or the glaze is applied evenly over a design executed in black). The bold designs of Kutani ware drew freely from Chinese ceramics, paintings, and textiles. They are renowned for their rich pictorial ornament executed in lively, intense lines and colors.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1900-1910","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40281821806781,"sku":"","price":65.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/KutaniPorcelainDaruma.jpg?v=1627011586"},{"product_id":"antique-japanese-kutani-bodhidharma-seated-daruma-okimono","title":"Antique Japanese Kutani Bodhidharma | Seated Daruma Okimono","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/b\u003e 4-1\/2” dia. x 5-1\/2”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAn absolutely stunning antique Buddhist sculpture depicting Bodhidharma, the Buddhist disciple of Zen Buddhism. A beautifully formed figurine with heavily applied overglaze enamel depicting the religious leader seated in a meditation pose.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e  \u003c\/span\u003eHe displays a very serine expression and is dressed in his red-rust colored robe with a hood, (Cowl) that both frames his expressive face and exemplifies the wonderful folds of the garment. The piece exhibits a rich pictorial ornament executed in lively, intense lines and original Kutani color. His face and eyes are expressively detailed and incorporate his characteristic whiskers as he stares forward in meditation. Kutani has been passed onto generations because of its significance and expressive porcelain designs. The piece has an incised generic \u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eKutani \u003c\/b\u003emark on the bottom.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Daruma is the founder of Zen Buddhism and is traditionally used in Japanese culture to symbolize one’s goals, actions, and outcomes. Daruma was a 5th-century Buddhist monk who is said to have established Zen (Chan) Buddhist teachings from China to Japan. He is also credited with introducing Kung Fu and other martial arts to the monks at the \u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eShaolin Temple in China\u003c\/b\u003e. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e: Excellent condition and as made and retains all the original features and coloration.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Taisho Period 1913 - 1926","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40286771478717,"sku":"","price":125.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/SeatedPorcelineDaruma_Face.jpg?v=1627060809"},{"product_id":"antique-chinese-red-lacquer-stand-brass-mounted-art-furniture","title":"Antique Chinese Red Lacquer Stand | Brass Mounted Art Furniture","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/b\u003e10-1\/4”w x 8-0”d x 7-1\/2”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis is a Rare and exceptional example of an antique Chinese matte red-lacquered display stand. The quality of construction and detail in 18th-century artifacts is superior to their 19th\/20th-century counterparts, which makes them far more elegant. The lozenge-style top is affixed to a finely carved apron, with pierced openings in the form of clouds. Lacquer has a long history in Chinese furniture and has been used for over 2000 years. A feature that you will especially appreciate is the carved brass fittings used to ornament the apron and feet. The top is supported by elegantly scrolled and bracketed, stylized cabriole form legs, (the shape of a long slow “S” shape, the outward curve of the knee is simply carved). The legs end in engraved brass, stylized feet are inspired by the single Chinese Samurai stirrups. \u003cem\u003ePieces of this type were also used in Japanese temples \u003cspan class=\"_dda3618c\" data-tn=\"pdp-item-description-content\"\u003efor holding incense burners and Buddha statues when making offerings. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan class=\"_dda3618c\" data-tn=\"pdp-item-description-content\"\u003eWhen China abandoned its feudal system and opened up to Western modernism where the artistic inspiration came from all over Europe and particularly England, (hence the use of cabriole legs on important objects). Shapes and motifs evolved towards more symbolic representations but remain to this day on many Chinese traditional objects, furniture, and architecture. Chinese interiors were made still more beautiful and interesting by bronzes, porcelain figures, and lacquer work of the best kind and supportive of formal displays. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eVintage Condition:\u003c\/b\u003e Excellent with beautiful modeling and definition throughout the piece. The piece has a beautiful original patina and depth to the finish. As is”, and retains the original craft\/workmanship. Small chip on one edge of the apron consistent with age and use. Also, there is an edge to the brass mount on the apron that is missing but does not take away from the original intent or visual appreciation—no discoloration or structural damage.   \u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHistorical Information:\u003c\/b\u003e Antique decorative stands were used from ancient times to the present to celebrate and present beautiful art objects and served to bring esteemed objects into more prominent light and bring esteemed objects into more prominent light. As with stands like the piece being offered are a favorite for display — Stand that are rough in textural carving to those that have a silky smooth texture, with the matted or richly toned surfaces have always been considered pleasing both to the touch and eye and not meant to be more important than the piece for which it is presenting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy the late Ming period, the pairing of objects to stands of suitable style and size had become an important aesthetic objective. These beautiful stand forms were made from a wide variety of materials, including metals, ceramics, wood, bamboo, root, and stone with lacquer being preferred. Today these miniaturized stands hewn from a single block of hardwood have survived.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Meiji (early 1900s)","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40880512008381,"sku":"","price":525.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/NegoroLacquerDisplayTable_1.jpg?v=1647990972"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-mino-oribe-yakimono-bowl-vintage-japanese-tea-kaiseki-mukozuke-serving-piece","title":"Vintage Japanese Mino\/Oribe Yakimono Bowl | Vintage Japanese Tea Kaiseki Mukozuke Serving Piece","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDimensions\u003c\/b\u003e: 2-0”h x 7-1\/2” dia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis wonderfully free formed Yakimono creation from Mino (also known as Oribe-yaki) which is a deep serving bowl is a perfect example of Oribe pottery of this era being bold, playful and abstract. It is hand-formed and incorporated surface paint layers of green copper glazes subtile abstract forms all of which was probably the first colored stoneware glaze of this period. The concave bowl with an undulating freeform lip affording a wonderful tactile experience. The base of the dish shows a mottled brown glazed clay and an untranslated artist's insignia. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis piece is included in the definition of Kaiseki-Mukozuke, which was one of the most frequent uses of ceramics in the Mukozuke course of eating, certainly the first the guest to see, and a dish used to hold something special. Tea people for the sake of entertainment and visual excitement enjoy contrasting objects used in the ceremony. In this case the ceramicist has greater freedom to move the clay, carving, molding, and manipulating to result in interesting shapes showing the unbridled imagination of the Mino potters which include the assemblage of distinctly different ceramic finishes. And finally, the color in Mukozuke is an important consideration in relation to the food served. There is also the thought that one wants to incorporate the entire range of a creative experience, and is considered a classic style of Japanese aesthetics and captures the spirit of the wabi tea ceremony.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e: Excellent condition as originally formed. No imperfections with a wonderful “hand” to the touch.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNOTE\u003c\/b\u003e: Mino Oribe is a visual style named after the late-16th-century tea master \u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFuruta Oribe\u003c\/b\u003e,(1544-1615) who was a warrior who once served Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Oda Nobunaga. He became the foremost tea master when his teacher Sen no Rikyu perished. It’s most often seen in pottery, but extends to textiles and paintings. Oribe was not an actual potter, but (like many other influential figures in Japan’s art history) something akin to an art director or designer. He embodied the spirit of \u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ewabi\u003c\/i\u003e tea so completely that he was able to give it form in a truly new and unique vision. The motifs, taken from nature or other decorative patterns such as textiles, were ground-breaking in their bold informality. It must have been this recognition of a new Japanese aesthetic that caused tea devotees to cherish \u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOribe\u003c\/i\u003e ware. Its ability to capture something of the artistic and spiritual soul of Japan quickly spread throughout the country, and its mass popularity continues to this day.\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1920s-1950s","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41104909402301,"sku":"","price":85.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/files\/JapaneseMino_OribeYakimonoBowl.jpg?v=1749764521"},{"product_id":"antique-japanese-nabeshima-yaki-celadon-porcelain-pottery-toad-with-baby","title":"Antique Japanese Nabeshima-yaki Celadon Porcelain Pottery Toad With Baby","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/b\u003e3-0”h x 5-0”w x 6-0”l\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn many ancient Asian tales and legends, the toad, (\u003cb\u003eHikigaeru\u003c\/b\u003e) is a trickster and a magician, a master of escapes and spells. He is also the keeper of the real, powerful secrets of the world, such as the secret of immortality.  It is such ascribed powers that undoubtedly led the Japanese, to associate the toad with Taoists who seek to develop these talents.” \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOffered is a rare and wonderful, large figurine of a toad in celadon glazing, with a textured scaled back with white dots, and a small baby frog sitting on top of its back. The glazing is a delicate translucent light grayish green. It has a blood-brown red accent to give character to the form, the eyes, and the features surrounding its open mouth. There are no identifying marks as to the maker. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e: Very good to Excellent original condition. Because of its importance and a rare animal figure, (most Nabeshima pieces were not animals), it was sensitively repaired to allow the history of the piece to remain and not take away from its beauty. The work was done by a professional restoration expert in Kyushu, on one leg from a small break that occurred early in its creation. The restorer originally thought it was a crack in the glazing because the leg was not fully detached.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNOTE\u003c\/b\u003e: Nabeshima ceramics originated from Arita in Saga Prefecture on Kyushu around the time when porcelain ware was first produced in Japan by Korean potters. The potters were brought to the country after the invasion of Korea by warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi around 400 years ago.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Late 1900s","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41721696026813,"sku":"","price":42.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/Nabeshima-yaki_toad_sideview.jpg?v=1649879399"},{"product_id":"antique-japanese-black-lacquer-buddhist-fubako-letter-box-with-gold-maki-e-design-meiji-period","title":"Antique Japanese Black Lacquer Buddhist FUMIBAKO (Document Box) with Gold Maki-e Design | Meiji Period","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDimensions\u003c\/b\u003e: 4-0”h x 3-7\/8”w x 16-0”l\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOffered is a Japanese antique Japanese maki-e (gold motif and high gloss black lacquer) document box, (\u003cb\u003eFumibako\u003c\/b\u003e), showcasing a harmonious blend of artistic craftsmanship and functionality. These embellishments gleam beautifully against the black lacquer, offering a captivating interplay of light and shadow that changes with the viewer’s perspective. This decorative Japanese technique features mons of ‘\u003cb\u003eMyoga\u003c\/b\u003e’ ginger, (A common motif for family crests and associated with military furnishings and Buddhism for the auspicious connotations of Myoga derives from the fact that its name is homonymic for “divine protection), and leafed vines throughout which increase the contrast of the outer surfaces, capturing the beauty of nature with remarkable precision, while the gold and silver accents create a sense of depth and movement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe technique for which the greatest beauty of lacquer is that it was used to decorate the most precious of objects for religious figures, samurai, and wealthy citizens. The interior contains its original removable shallow tray for storage with a hidden box interior with a finger cutout at the base for removal. It has two gold-fitted ring clasps on the sides of the bottom section with a decorative orange tassel attached to the fastening cord adds a striking touch and is used to tie both sections (lid and base container) together, thus enhancing the overall elegance and warmth of the piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe piece is housed in its original Kiri, (Paulownia) box, with its storage straps, and was used to present precious treasures and to protect beautiful objects from humidity. While not considered a common storage box, it continued to play an important role to Japanese people. Having its original signed handmade box inscribed with \"\u003cb\u003eFUMIBAKO\u003c\/b\u003e”, with the artist's signature and identification of the maker further enhances the historical value and authenticity of the piece, offering insights into its origins and the reverence with which it was stored makes this piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAntique\u003c\/b\u003e \u003cb\u003eCondition: \u003c\/b\u003eThe condition of the box is mint and remarkably well-preserved, with the lacquer retaining its original luster and the maki-e decorations remaining vibrant and intact, no corner separations, no loss of the base lacquer or gold motif, and without dings on any interior or exterior surface. There are no significant signs of damage or wear, attesting to the careful handling and preservation over the years. This document box serves as a practical container holding important documents and a testament to the aesthetic sensibilities and advanced techniques of Japanese lacquer art. As a rare and highly collectible piece, it encapsulates the harmony of natural beauty and skilled craftsmanship, making it a valuable item for collectors and scholars of Japanese traditional arts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNote:\u003c\/b\u003e Maki-e is \u003cb\u003ea distinctive Japanese lacquerware technique\u003c\/b\u003e said to have developed around 1200 years ago. Japanese artisans employed skills and techniques handed down usually through family lines that involved using a fine brush to paint a picture, patterns, and letters with lacquer on the surface of a vessel creating a design.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1868-1912, (Meiji period)","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41962632151229,"sku":"","price":425.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/JapaneseAntiqueLetterBox.jpg?v=1653884419"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-lacquer-incense-box-with-butterfly-motif-lid","title":"Vintage Japanese Lacquer Incense Box with Butterfly Motif Lid","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e 1\/4\"h x 3-0\"dia\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFine and thin wood lacquer Kogo, (incense box), in which the lid is ornamented with a beautiful detailing of three butterflies using the \u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ehiramaki-e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003ci data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e, (low relief carving)\u003c\/i\u003e. The design is made with multiple lacquer layers and mother-of-pearl, creating a three-dimensional motif and polished to the desired effect. Specifically made for use during the tea ceremony. The piece is unsigned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIncense arrived in Japan beginning with Buddhism in the sixth century. Incense experienced in temples during Buddhist ceremonies must have inspired Japanese (who could afford it) to burn incense in their homes, not only to commemorate ancestors, deities, and important life events, and to show they were sophisticated. Houses were scented, clothes were hung in ways and places to absorb incense aromas, kimono were stored with incense packets to keep away “critters” and hair was perfumed. Powdered incense was considered \"cleansing”, and was used on the palms, head, and sprinkled on floors (a great practice for temples that required a 'no-footwear' policy), and used today for meditation and to calm the mind. Beautiful containers of all sizes and materials were handcrafted honoring the importance of incense throughout the Asian cultures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003eNOTE\u003c\/b\u003e: \u003cb\u003eFor more information about Japanese boxes and lacquer see our blogs\u003c\/b\u003e: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mingeiarts.com\/blogs\/celebration-of-mingei-journey-through-japan\/kogo-incense-containers-open-the-atmospheric-paths-of-creativity-socialization\"\u003ehttps:\/\/mingeiarts.com\/blogs\/celebration-of-mingei-journey-through-japan\/kogo-incense-containers-open-the-atmospheric-paths-of-creativity-socialization\u003c\/a\u003e, and \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mingeiarts.com\/blogs\/celebration-of-mingei-journey-through-japan\/lacquerwork-an-important-intangible-ancient-art\"\u003ehttps:\/\/mingeiarts.com\/blogs\/celebration-of-mingei-journey-through-japan\/lacquerwork-an-important-intangible-ancient-art\u003c\/a\u003e, as well as \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/mingeiarts.com\/blogs\/celebration-of-mingei-journey-through-japan\/the-craft-of-the-japanese-bako-a-box-needs-a-purpose\"\u003ehttps:\/\/mingeiarts.com\/blogs\/celebration-of-mingei-journey-through-japan\/the-craft-of-the-japanese-bako-a-box-needs-a-purpose\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eVintage Condition\u003c\/b\u003e: Excellent as originally made. “As is” with no effects from aging, and retains the original craft\/workmanship. Any discoloration, chipping\/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage is noted. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1930s","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41967403204797,"sku":"","price":65.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/VintageJapaneseLacquerIncenseBox.jpg?v=1654007634"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-scroll-entitled-takasago-hinode-sunrise-by-hakusho-shiramatsu","title":"Antique Japanese Hanging Scroll: Takasago Hinode Sunrise | ‘Auspicious Kakejiku’","description":"\u003cdiv title=\"Page 9\" class=\"page\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"section\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e22-3\/4” w x 72-0”l\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOffered is an authentic work of art that stimulates the viewer and encourages cultural understanding. The \u003cstrong\u003eKakejiku\u003c\/strong\u003e, or hanging scroll, has been esteemed for centuries as a vital cultural symbol, forming a part of traditional Japanese fine art. Its presence not only brings beauty into Japanese homes and public spaces but also offers a unique method of demonstrating a deep respect for space, time, and nature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll Kakejiku are tailored to celebratory occasions, making the moment special, and allowing for the selection of what is most suitable for the given instant. Furthermore, its history underscores the profound value of faith and appreciation that scrolls carry reflecting the Japanese aesthetic consciousness, offering ways for individuals to feel integrated with nature and incorporate art into their lives. Understanding the underlying significance of a scroll like the Takasago presented here further enhances its beauty and profound implications.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOffered is a magnificent Vintage Japanese Hand Painted Silk Scroll, (‘Auspicious kakejiku’), executed with ink wash on paper captures the folklore about \u003cb\u003eJo and Uba \u003c\/b\u003eand represents the\u003cb\u003e CRANES | Gods of Marriage\u003c\/b\u003e which mate for life and which are a symbol of long life. \u003cb\u003eSEA PINE\u003c\/b\u003e - the emblem of strength, endurance, and longevity, because it is believed that its sap turns into amber after a thousand years; the \u003cb\u003eTORTOISE\u003c\/b\u003e - emblem of longevity. Framing the artwork is a narrow strip of brocade silk known as “\u003cb\u003eichimonji\u003c\/b\u003e”, which is “trim” surrounding the artwork. The scroll is finished with simple wood rollers and has its original silk tassels and black onyx scroll weights '\u003cstrong\u003efuchin\u003c\/strong\u003e'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe legend of Takasago with Jo and Uba under the pine tree. Pine of Takasago represents a scene from a Noh play based on the subject of the Eternal Couple from the Legend of Takasago. Jo and Uba were supposed to have fallen in love when young and after living to a very old age their spirits came to abide in pine trees, one on the beach at Takasago in Harima. Their spirits returned on moonlit nights in human form with rakes to continue their work of clearing the pine needles on Takasago Beach. This is a traditional Japanese gift for a marriage celebration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA significant factor that can make the acquisition of a hanging scroll, perhaps even more compelling than that of a Japanese woodblock, is its UNIQUENESS. After all, the artwork seen on nearly all Japanese hanging scrolls is indeed a truly one-of-a-kind hand-painted piece of art. Individually and painstakingly hand-drawn, thus, not even two \"similar-appearing\" pieces are alike. The piece is signed and has the artist's impressed stamp with its kiriwood box for storage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e: Excellent, fully intact, and no fading, in its protective “paulownia wood” storage box with the name of the scroll.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"19th\/Century","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41975765139645,"sku":"","price":225.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/files\/AntiqueJapaneseScrollPainting_TakasagoHinodeSunrise_uspiciouskakejiku_a95c1fd2-4103-4c49-9984-9970d0dda436.jpg?v=1721694110"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-miniature-daruma-daishi-figures-and-hime-daruma-bell","title":"Vintage Japanese Miniature Daruma Daishi Figures and Hime-Daruma Bell by Hashiyama","description":"\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eDimensions\u003c\/b\u003e: 1-1\/2”h\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOffered is a set of Four (4) miniature \u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOkimono\u003c\/b\u003e, (ornament for display and typically displayed in a Tokonoma alcove or Butsudan altar) representing Daruma and Himi Daruma. Shown from left to right is \u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ehime-daruma\u003c\/b\u003e, (which means princess and refers to the legendary Empress Jingū Kogō) who had a special connection with Matsuyama, the headquarters of an important warrior clan during Japan's feudal era, (1185–1867). The other three figures represent Daruma which is the Japanese name for Bodhidharma, a monk who founded Zen Buddhism in Japan. Though to be a Hindu or Persian prince, Daruma rejected his former life and traveled across the Silk Road to China and Japan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe first figure shows Daruma holding seated with a fly whisk, the second (middle) figure he is standing with his whisk over his s shoulder and wearing large earrings, and the third (far right) figure is the most unusual in that he is holding a smaller figure of himself in his raised right hand and wearing an \u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHachimaki\u003c\/b\u003e, (bandana) on his head. Each has a wonderful characteristic face and large and expressive eyes. Each has impressed stamps on the bottom of the figure. These miniature pieces are made by Hashiyama.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e: Very Good vintage condition and commensurate with age as seen in the loss of some glazing from loving attention.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1960s","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41986128314557,"sku":"","price":30.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/products\/JapaneseMiniatureDarumaDaishiFiguresandHime-DarumaBell.jpg?v=1654469884"},{"product_id":"vintage-japanese-sosaku-kokeshi-entitled-ume-goromo-plum-flower-by-takahashi-hashime-1918-2002","title":"Vintage Japanese Sosaku Kokeshi entitled: “Ume Goromo | Plum Kimono” by Takahashi, Hashime","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/b\u003e14-3\/8”h\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eShown is an exceptional and Rare Kokeshi which illustrates the artist’s educational foundation in painting, (\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSōtatsu-Kōetsu\u003c\/b\u003e). This piece is formed on the lathe from one piece of Birch (\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eKabanoki\u003c\/b\u003e) wood in which the natural wood is only shown on the head-neck and base of the doll. The unique formation of the head is what makes this piece rare, and to date has not been adopted by other carvers. The figure with an upturned face is detailed in black and grey sumi-e’ type rendering as if\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e looking up to the trees dropping plum blossoms\u003c\/span\u003e. The piece is beautifully ornamented with pink-colored plum blossoms with accented pistils and stamens and disbursed throughout the figure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTakahashi-san completes the Kimono interpretation by adding a \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"ILfuVd\" lang=\"en\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"hgKElc\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003enagajuban \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"ILfuVd\" lang=\"en\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"hgKElc\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e(stiff undergarment collar)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e, in which tiny colorful flowers bring emphasis to her head and neck, and are fully detailed. He indicates the Kimono closure with a simple line suggesting the draping of the garment and finished in a light \u003cem\u003eliserian\u003c\/em\u003e purple. She has an exaggerated, tight waistline that simply accents the Obi in gold pigment. The piece is signed and has the artist's impressed stamp on the bottom of the doll. It was purchased in his studio that was in Sendai City, (Northeast of Tokyo on Honshu island) Japan.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTE\u003c\/strong\u003e: This Kokeshi by Takahashi was published and cited as a Japanese competition winner for which a group of Sosaku Kokeshi that were introduced in the United States to the American public under the auspices of the Japan Society of New York, and hosted by \u003cb\u003eJETRO\u003c\/b\u003e (Japan External Trade Organization). The catalogue entitled: \u003cb\u003eKokeshi Dolls From Japan\u003c\/b\u003e,(Printed by DOBI Printing Co., Ltd. Japan), citing 232 Kokeshi, with selected designer photography, for which the image of the piece was listed as #71 of the catalog with the artist\/designer, name of the doll, (English and Japanese), and the size of the doll. A very rare historical documentation of the first Sosaku Kokeshi proudly recognized by the Japanese government.\u003cspan class=\"Apple-converted-space\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition\u003c\/b\u003e: Excellent vintage condition and commensurate with age. Seldom found carving, with no loss or fading of artwork\/details.  After the turning, carving, and painting, the doll is finished and sealed with a natural candle wax, (\u003cb data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eRosoku no ro\u003c\/b\u003e). A perfect doll for the collector of Japanese Sosaku Kokeshi.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1960s","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42009288507581,"sku":"","price":135.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/files\/SosakuKokeshi.PlumFlowerbyTakahashi_Hashime.jpg?v=1691107398"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0097\/4195\/9268\/collections\/In_stock_7c255c4c-fd59-49fe-b6ac-e4c48f157072.jpg?v=1741566787","url":"https:\/\/mingeiarts.com\/collections\/all-other-things-japanese.oembed?page=4","provider":"Mingei Arts","version":"1.0","type":"link"}