Catalog: Antiques: Regional Art (346)

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

One of a collection of three fantastic and rare, large Edo Period Iki masks, de-accessioned from the Musée Archéologique in Strasbourg, France during the mid-20th Century. These three are rare for their large size. They have never before been offered on the art market. The other two masks are posted on this site. Carved Poloma wood with gofun (oyster shell lacquer), glass eyes and human hair. 9 inches (23 cm) high x 8 inches (20 cm) wide.

Rare and Fine Japanese Edo Period Musha Ningyo for the Boy's Day display, depicting the celebrated tea master and political adviser Sen no Rikyu (1522-1591), in a kneeling position wearing rich silk brocades. He is displayed in front of a beautiful and elegant wood and silk screen with four continuing panels of a dragon flying in the clouds and chasing the magic pearl of immortality. The screen is made of black lacquered wood with gilt threads couched and stumpworked onto a dark black silk background. Ningyo depicting Sen no Rikyu became popular in the opening decades of the 19th century when stories, plays, and ningyo connected with the life of Toyotomi Hideyoshi (to whom Rikyu served as an important advisor) dominated many aspects of popular culture. Minor wear to black velvet collar, otherwise fine condition. Screen: 18 x 12.5 inches, 46 x 32 cm. Ningyo height: 8.5 inches, 21.5 cm.

This rare 19th Century Bunraku Puppet of Osome, and rare scroll painting of Osome came from a private collection of theater art in Japan. The puppet is a heroine in the play, Shinpan Utazaimon Nozakimura no Dan (Osome Hisamatsu). It is made of wood and covered with many layers of gofun (crushed oyster shell), with painted features, dressed in a sumptuous brocade silk kimono and obi. Her head moves up and down, and from side to side. Bamboo stand is included. The painting on paper, with ceramic roller ends, is from the same play and is signed Joruri. Scroll: 50 x 22 inches, 127 x 56 cm. Bunraku Puppet Height: 25 inches, 63.5 cm.

Taisho Period (1912-1926) Gold and Black Lacquer Obento Lunch Box/Picnic Box filled with symbolism of eternal love. The deer and crane are symbols of longevity, and when they are paired they are symbols of eternal love. The pine tree is also a symbol of longevity. The pastoral scenes and gold flowers are beautifully rendered in gold lacquer on black lacquer. The handle is in the form of a pair of dragons. 14w x 12h x 7d inches, 35.5w x 30.5h x 18d inches.

This is a rare, well-modeled and detailed 19th Century Japanese Arita Porcelain Elephant. It is based upon an outstanding 1680 Japanese Kakiemon model, which in turn, was derived from Chinese prototypes. This piece is enameled in red and cobalt with yellow accents. It is a beautiful and striking work of art. Width: 17 inches (43cm); Height: 8.25 inches (21cm).

Japanese Edo Period Musha Ningyo (Boys Day) Dolls, Samurai Set. Ningyo this early almost never appear for sale, much less with accessories, as we have here with this very fine quality pair. They have finely carved faces, and are lacquered with many coats of gofun (white oyster shell pigment). They are adorned with sumptuous silk brocades and silk armor, indicative of Edo Period Ningyo artistry. Tallest Ningyo: 19 inches (48.25cm).

A Group of Japanese Meiji Period Gold Lacquered Wood Lotus Blossoms. They were displayed on the altar of a Buddhist temple and represent rebirth and the cycle of life. Each flower is depicted in a different state of maturity. Late 19th Century. Height of the tallest flower: 30 inches (76cm).

A 19th Century Isho Ningyo set of two Geisha entertainers, one a Koto Player, the other the highest ranking Orian singing. They are of the finest quality. They have beautifully carved faces and hands, and wear gorgeous, sumptuous brocades with fantastic embroidery. The Orian has fine embroidery of a carp ascending a waterfall, a crane, and turtles on waves. The Koto Player has embroidery of cherry blossoms and patterns of gold threads. The Koto is made of paloma wood, teak, and ivory. Geisha means 'woman of art'. The art may be shamisen playing, singing, dancing, and of course, the arts of conversation and tea ceremony hostess. Sizes: Orian 11.75 inches (30cm) high; Koto Player 7.75 inches (20cm) high; Koto 12 inches (30.5cm) wide.

Japanese Meiji Period painted poloma wood door (sugido). Ink and pigment on a natural wood ground, depicting a peacock perched on a flowering cherry tree, signed/sealed Sho[ryo], the reverse with scattered cherry petals floating near a flowering dandelion plant. Possibly featured in a retreat of the upper class. Height: 70.75 inches, 180 cm; Width: 34.25 inches, 87 cm.

18th Century Japanese Two Panel painted Screen of a Pine Tree and Landscape, set in gold painted clouds floating in the image. An exceptional classic Japanese masterpiece. The presence of this image changes with the light of the room. The painting techniques are sumptuous, giving the image a heightened realistic experience. A similar screen was sold by Liza Hyde to the Rockefeller collection. Height: 74.75 inches, 190 cm; Width: 67.25 inches, 171 cm.

A rare late Edo Period four-panel silverized Japanese Screen. A fine scholar's composition of bamboo, rocks, and a swallow in flight. A beautifully painted sumi, with a fine oxidized silverized patina. It appears to have the original brocade frame. The screen is in extraordinary condition for its age. A superb, museum quality screen and an important find. Height: 40 inches, 101.5 cm; Width: 72 inches, 183 cm.

Edo Period Japanese Safe. 17d x 13.75h x 12.25w inches, 43d x 35h x 31h cm.

Pair of 18th Century Japanese Carved Stone Sculptures of the Female Buddha Sattva with beautifully polychromed colors. Inscribed on the back. These rare figures are important artifacts of Buddhism and they transmit a wonderful spiritual presence. Heights: 10.5 and 10 inches, 27 and 25.5 cm.

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

Japanese Cloisonne Vase with elaborate flowers on silver wire over red enamel with foil design. A striking, elaborate work of art and a treasure of exquisite beauty and excellent detail. Height: 12.5 inches, 32 cm.

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

Japanese Late Edo Period Bronze and Cloisonne Phoenix Incense Burner, presented as a fantastic rendition of the subject, with gorgeous colorful inlay creating a great work of art. Height: 10.5 inches (17cm), length: 11 inches (18cm).