This thatched fiber rain cape (mino) was worn in the summer rainy season. It shed rain effectively and allowed ventilation when it was warm. Included are a couple of details from paintings depicting the use of mino, or thatched rainwear. Dimensions: Length: 40" ...click for details
This kimono or juban is patched from neckline to hemline. Both the garment and most all the patches are of striped (shima) cotton but there are a couple great pieces of kasuri worked in. The shapes and contours of the patches contripbut to the garment's appeal. As is usual for a well-used worker's kimono, there are some holes visible in the photos. Dimensions: ...click for details
This weighty jacket appears to have a mix of cotton and asa fibers. It's shows a lifetime of hard wear with the sleeves and shoulders worn and patched again and again. Added interest is found in the dark collar's contrast with the striped fabric and the basting along the edges is in a hemp-like twine. This jacekt has seen a lot of hard work and is a fine example of mingei textiles. Dimensions: ...click for details
Spanning 160", this cotton drape offers a journey through myriad textiles including katazome, indigo blues, kasuri and striped (shima) cotton. The panels are hand sewn with some machine-stitched reinforcement likely added at a later time. Both top and bottom edges are machine-stitched, and an added piece along the length of the top gives strength to the tabs and allows the drape to hang securely. Many patches h ...click for details
Sashiko stitching accents this arresting piece. It's comprised of recycled remnants of tsutsugaki, kasuri and striped cotton and has many patches and mends as well as some worn areas. The variety of fabrics as well as the sashiko stitching contribute to its appeal. Dimensions: 66" x 76" Please add $17.00 for insured Parcel ...click for details
This little chest has been around at least since the Meiji era. It has three drawers with heavy cast iron handles and locks (sorry, no keys). One drawer has an oil stain inside. Dimensions; Height; 12-1/2" Width: 10" ...click for details
This pair is carved in high relief and showcases an eagle pair and pine. Carving on the ranma front sides extends beyond the cartouche for added drama, but the back sides also offer striking detail, ie. the bird's raised foot. Although the motif isn't uncommon, the artist presents the pine in a special way. The sharply carved and clumped needles, make the pine light and airy. The frames may not be original. ...click for details
This piece has lots of cachet with its slender silhouette and heavy carved roof. It was originally a shrine but now we find that it's also a great display case. The roof isn't permanantly attached but it's sound and sturdy and will present heavy items without wobbling.
Dimensions:
Height: 38"" ...click for details
The resident crickets set this lantern apart. The simple elegant geometry is stunning in itself, but the hand-made crickets inside make it a stand-out piece. The iron has an oxidized appearance but is very sound; there's no flaking metal. It dates from the Meiji or Taisho period. The height of the globe is 11-1/4", the diameter is 14" and the hanger extends about 1" above the globe. ...click for details
Striking and substantial hibachi sits on three legs. This is an Oribe piece that shows characteristics of other types of Mino pottery, particularly Seto ware. The Oribe geometric pattern and chrysanthemums are partially obscured by the heavy green glaze that slips down the pot. Small nick on one foot. Dates from the Meiji or Taisho period. Dimensions: ...click for details
