A unique hand split bamboo basket in the shape of a natural double gourd. Wild gnarled wisteria forms a steady base while branching up and around the backside of the double gourd.

Early Meiji Period C. 1870's

14" long X 11" deep X 24" high

Japanese ikebana (flower basket) used in tradition ikebana flower displays. Beautifully natural finish of split bamboo and gnarled wisteria branch each twisting and blending into a full moon. Condition is very good. Includes copper insert (may allow to be used for flowers).

Edo Period C. 19th Century

Dimensions: 18 1/2" wide X 10" deep X 15 3/4" high

A rare full size Japanese Temple gold gilt ranma. Deep hand-carved relief depicting a floating apsara with an incredible flowing phoenix tail feathers (heavenly being) amongst swirling clouds. A phoenix rising up and through the angel with its head seen leading the way.
An apsara is a female spirit of the clouds and waters in Hindu and Buddhist culture. They figure prominently in the sculpture, dance, literature and painting of many South Asian and Southeast Asian... Click for details

A rare example of an Karasu (raven) Samurai menpo (facial armour). Although not as celebrated today, the crow is a mark of rebirth and rejuvenation; the animal that has historically cleaned up after great battles symbolized the renaissance after such tragedy. Yatagarasu as a crow-god is a symbol specifically of guidance.
Known by many different names, Men-gu,Men-yoroiand Katchu-men, the face protection encountered with many suits of Japanese armour is a fascinating topic in its own... Click for details

An antique architectural Japanese Buddhist temple carving of opposing flying Ryu (dragons) protecting a Hoju (sacred Buddhist jewel) with the eyes made using the reverse glass painting technique. The detailed relief carving shows their coiled bodies circulating amongst the stylized clouds with one dragon open mouth to expel evil spirits and the other closed mouth to keep good spirits in. Their serpentine body reveals 4 appendages with classic three claw anatomy. The dragon represents the... Click for details

Pair of Japanese bronze Sheep, one male (ram) an one Female (ewe). Well model with realistic details. Both are solid bronze and have their original natural aged patina.

Both signed: Bikai, comes with original kiri wood tomobako signed Bikai: Reading pair of bronze sheep.

Meiji period (1868 - 1912)

Dimension Box: 9" wide X 7 3/4" deep X 7" high Dimensions Ram: 6 1/2" long X 2 1/2" wide X 5 1/2" high

A stunning large natural quartz crystal oxide mineral with just a touch of smoke tonalities. Lighter tones lead to almost transparent clear mineral. A blend of smaller clusters of crystals making up the base leading single large crystal fading out at a 45 degree angle.

crystal was often mentioned in writings and used to decorate important religious objects, as it was thought that crystal manifested transcendence and the light of the heavens. For the religious, the stone symbolized... Click for details

Pair of finely detailed full size silver Japanese temple candlesticks. Embossed with wild flowers and scrolling vines. Blooming flowers are seen from the base, up the stem to the top. Gorgeous original patina consistent with age. Overall very good condition.

Edo Period C. Early 1800's

Dimensions: 9" wide X 25" high

A reversible leather firefighter's hanten 半纏 (heavier weight coat made popular in the 18th century). At this time in Japan, fireman were vollenters and carried other professions. In this case, The inside logo represents that the wearer would have been a high ranking carpenter for roof making.

Features tsutsugaki 筒描 (resist dying process) using the smoke of pine needles to produce the light patterns, and ink to dye the black side. The black sleeves appear to have been... Click for details

A pair of small Japanese shrine candlesticks. Each would received a long standing candle inserted onto each small spike. Swirring vines and flowers depicted on both half round base and round lipped top. Unusual small size.

Great accent piece for the contemporary home.

Meiji Period C. 19th Century Dimensions: 4" X 4" X 11 1/2" High