Topoke spear currency. Forged iron mounted on black iron stand. Equatorial Region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Large forged blades such as this in the shape of a spear point were well used in the middle of the 20th century. As currency and during marriage ceremonies, they are known under several names; Di hunga (small form), doa the larger example spear form. During the marriage ceremonies up to 60 doa might be exchanged for the bride. These were specially shaped look like spear's... Click for details

The sacred standing buddha is a Abhaya mudra posture of buddha. Its missing right hand still evokes its meaning which imparting fearlessness and reassurance. The fragmented crowned head and ursna has deteriorated as a symbol of its meaning illusion over ignorance. The buddhas eyes are complete and inlaid with mother of pearl and stone. The full body is sculpted in a soft manner representing its flow of energy and showing its lifelike qualities. The overall bronze figure still shows traces... Click for details

Antique Japanese carved Keyaki hardwood Raijin, God of lightning, thunder, and Storm. A protector deity for the Shinto religion. The surface of the grain is raised with the original red rimpa paint still intact. Typically these sculptures would be very fierce with demonic features. Which in this case, is contrary which makes it more benevolent, compassionate, and sympathetic in its appeal. The condition of the piece is consistent of its age. Minor repairs on base with large iron staple.... Click for details

Antique Japanese tamba storage jar. Large open mouth with akadobe glaze, which consists of russet and blue runny glaze. Tapers in shape down to the base. This form is animated through the irregularities of the firing of the kiln.

Edo Period 19th Century

25" Diameter x 24"

This superb helmet bowl is comprised of 64 iron plates that are slightly embossed between the suji, double front plates, and a washer underneath the top front riveted inside. The bowl has been given a very dark russet finish and fitted with a simple iron visor. The meadate is a forged iron hornet with gilt brass wings. The shikkoro of five - lames of false scale laced in blue silk and brown russet lacquer. Unsigned

Size: 14" L x 14" W x 13"... Click for details

Antique Japanese iron tomiodai candleholder. Includes full five tiered with twenty five iron prickets, used in traditional buddhist or Shinto rituals. Forged iron with age consistent to usage.

Meiji Period 19th Century

Size: 27.5" L x 14.5" W x 26.25" H

Antique Quanyin stone carving, the bodhisattva of compassion. She is seated upon a lotus throne with her legs crossed in the lotus position, her left hand holding a container, with her right hand performing the akash mudra or Buddhist hand gesture, increasing the space element within. She wears beautiful open robes with delicate patterns and a crown upon her head.

Dates circa 1920.

Size: 8.75" height, 5" width

Antique bronze Moroccan black powder container. Appliqué copper with fine chasing. Original patina matching that of its age and use. Copper rings used for mounting piece for ease of use while traveling.

18th Century With brass display stand.

Size: 5" W x 8" H

Incredible belt buckle with chased Malay floral motifs on a niello ground. Three layers of ogival form with jagged edges and pointed sides. Several bands of geometric designs, line work and floral motifs ornament this piece. The centre is of plain silver with a central niello dot.The back has a looped carrier which allows a belt to pass through.

Niello belt buckles were worn with textile belts on ceremonial occasions. The size, material and intricacy of the buckle’s design signalled... Click for details

Antique Indian gold damascene iron shield. Original remnants of the hand grip materials, which consist of leather and cushion cut velvet remaining on the inside of the shield. Four protruded mounts are gold damascened with fine floral detailing.

Mogul 18th Century, India

Size: 13" Diameter x 2" H