This Ethnic Minority is from the Chinese province of Yunnan. It was a typical costume worn by the woman of the Yi minority group. The fabric is cotton homespun with an applique embroidery decoration bordering the sleeve hems. An added geometric tiny cross stitch embroidery pattern highlights the hem of the garment. Addition This garment is entirely hand stitched.
These antique Chinese hand carved wooden plate display stands are from the Qing dynasty. The front of the stand has an ornate pair of foo dogs playing with a ball. There are slender grooves cut into the inside edge to accommodate the rim of a plate with a diameter of approximately 16.5 cm (about 6.5inches). The back support for the plate has a cleverly designed wooden swing hinge which is also removable...
Miao womans Zhaotong style robe from Guizhou province, Wumeng mountain region. The traditional arrow pattern of this garment was considered as a protection from the arrows of enemies. Combining cotton and wool homespun, these garments were used literally as blankets to protect from the cold while tending cattle. Not many survived and the condition reflects the use.
Robe is close to 5 feet in width.
This antique shield is an artifact from the Dutch War with the Atjeh (now Aceh). In short, the Dutch colonial government considered Indonesia "theirs". The indigenous people, the Atjeh, on the Northern part of Sumatra, disagreed. The war began in 1883 and extended into 1904 when "peace" was declared.
This large war shield, made and carried by an Atjeh warrior, has a double layer of woven Rattan with circles of 6 pointed metal stars and brass pins...
Definitely a utilitarian item, this is a small old Chinese cooking utensil which was used for peeling, and or grating small fruits or vegetables. I admit that I avoid cooking so I am somewhat at a loss as to the specific purposes of the 3 cutting areas. Wrapped around one end is a metal strip, I assume this is for peeling. The other end has a series of 5 small metal circles??? and the middle section is for fine grating...
This old hand carved Tibetan horn still has most of its original paint and its original leather thong. The carved dragon head on the end is very expressive. Horn instruments were commonly used in Tibetan rituals and ceremonies. This one is 15" long and has a deep piercing sound for one who knows how to play a horned instrument.
This antique silk embroidery panel was probably used as a table runner or scarf during the Qing dynasty. Some staining and fading has occured over time but the embroidery detail has remained bright and clear. Measures 16.75 x 68 inches
This child's headpiece was from a very high status, wealthy Chinese family. Basically made of 3 pieces of shaped and intricately carved leather, it was made "adjustable". Heavily decorated with additional carved elements, dragons, beads and pompoms, it still has most of the original gold paint. This is a rare treasure. approx 6" x 3.5"
This pair of Chinese toddlers boots were hand made by the Ethnic minority Miao grandmother. They were worn and are somewhat soiled but the are a fine example of needle arts craftsmanship. The upper boot is made with a series of small fabric pieces folded along a curve and then sewn together into a consistent pattern similar to the window pane quilt pattern.
This hand made beater board was used with an old backstrap loop by one of the hill tribes of northern Thailand. Now, as a folk art tool from another culture, it is an authentic ethnographic artifact and is also an interesting piece of sculpture.
The beater board is 4 inches wide and 27+ inches long, and has lost a few "teeth" with age.
The body of the traditional Chinese cricket cage is made from a beautifully grained rosewood. The bone inset panel of the lid is carved into a floral design with openwork that allows for air circulation.
This adorable pair of children's shoes is from the late Qing period of Chinese history. Hand-made from black background fabric, they are embellished with pig-like nose and floppy ears. The embroidered snout nostrils, wrinkle lines and large eyes complete the pig face image. Each side has a red embroidered fish for abundance.
The shoes have clearly had a minimum of use and are in very good condition.













