We are delighted to present to you this remarkable pair of candlesticks in the shape of Athenian women, real jewels inspired by the drawings of the illustrious artist Jean-Charles Delafosse. These 18th century candlesticks harmoniously combine functionality and aesthetics, offering a unique experience. Each candle holder, in addition to being a magnificent candle holder, is also a refined perfume burner. The combination of these two functions makes them versatile and elegant pieces, bringing a ...

Takashi Nakazato is a celebrated Japanese ceramic artist whose family's mastery of pottery now spans 14 generations. Born in Karatsu, Saga Prefecture in 1937, Nakazato inherited a rich legacy of craftsmanship dating back over 400 years. He trained extensively in traditional ceramic techniques under his father, and later pursued further studies at the Kyoto City Arts and Crafts Institute. Nakazato's work is deeply rooted in the aesthetics of Karatsu-ware, known for its earthy tones an...

Appearing to be from a 2006 excavation site in Tokyo known to be a former residence of the Owari Tokugawa clan—the most senior contingent of the Tokugawa clan that united Japan under one rule—this lovely Mishima tea bowl is one of just two I have seen appear on the Japanese art market over the years. The previous bowl also listed on our site had a large portion reconstructed with a gold repair. This piece meanwhile is entirely intact and even has its original box. Details about t...

Japanese Mugiwara pottery emerged in the Mino region of Japan during the Momoyama period in the late 16th century. It is renowned for its distinctive straw-rope patterns etched into or painted on its surfaces that typically contains hues of indigo, mustard, hazel, ochre, and sometimes greens. The creation of Mugiwara pottery involves a process of hand-building or wheel-throwing clay pieces—typically serving dishes, vases, and teaware items—and then meticulously applying a straw-r...

Not to be confused with the Olympic medalist, this Tomita Hiroyuki (b. 1977) is a talented potter pushing the bounds of an otherwise conservative field where many ceramic forms are carried forward for centuries and sometimes millennia. Beginning his artistic endeavors in the field of metal casting, he soon met and became a student to Ijuin Mariko who introduced him to the world of ceramics. In 2007 he opened his own workshop and since that time he has been actively creating and exhib...

Japanese Jubako, traditional stacked lacquerware food boxes, represent not only culinary refinement but also an important aspect of Japanese food culture. These elegantly tiered containers, often adorned with intricate designs and vibrant colors, are integral to the presentation of special occasion meals such as New Year’s celebrations and formal picnics. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, Jubako boxes like the one featured here showcase the artistry of Japanese lacquerwa...

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and showcasing a soft and gracefully executed red glaze, this Raku tea bowl exudes a sense of ease, tenderness, and tranquility. Adorned with subtle crackling patterns and variations in texture, the tea bowl's surface adds to its unique and organic feel. Made by one of the true veterans of Japanese pottery, these are some of the finest Raku tea bowls you will find in all of Japan.

Sugimoto (b. 1935) is one of the most important...

Crafted from locally sourced Bizen clay, this mid-Edo period vase embodies simplicity, beauty, and understated elegance. Originally crafted as a tokkuri, or sake flask, it was recovered from the estate of a tea-practitioner who reportedly cherished it as a vase that would hold colorful flowers and various grasses throughout the seasons.

Thanks to the dedication and passion of a researcher by the name of Katsura Matasaburo (1901-1986) we can be assured that this vase is a...

Japanese bamboo crafting, known as "Takezaiku," is a traditional art form that involves the skilled manipulation of bamboo to create various functional and decorative objects. Craftsmen trained in this art carefully select bamboo of appropriate size and quality, then use specialized tools to cut, shape, and join the bamboo pieces. Techniques such as splitting, bending, weaving, and binding are employed to achieve intricate designs and durable structures. Bamboo crafting encompasses a...

During the Meiji period in Japan, the humble iron kettle, known as a "tetsubin," emerged as an iconic symbol of traditional craftsmanship and functional artistry. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and often adorned with intricate designs—as can be seen here with a cherry blossom motif and a what appears to be a pine-cone for a gripper—they became an essential tool in the Japanese tea ceremony. These kettles were prized not only for their practicality in boiling water bu...

Set of 6 German 800 silver figural open salts, ca 1920. Each: A swan with erect neck and down-turned bill and pointy tail; body hollow. With fluted and scalloped frosted glass liner. Fully marked including maker’s stamp attributable to Martin Mayer. Numbered 2 (1), 42 (2), and 88 (3). Very good condition. One liner has bottom crack.

Dimensions: H 2 x L 2 1/4 x W 1 1/4 in. Total weight (silver only): 2.5 troy ounces. #BZ325

A pair of blue topaz earrings. The pear shaped stones measure 1/2" x 3/8" while the setting measures 3/4" x 5/8". The butterfly clutches are marked 14k.

Victorian silver baby cup. Made by S. Kirk & Son in Baltimore. Straight sides with allover floral repousse on stippled ground. Cast and capped leaf scroll handle and pointille foot border. Fully marked including maker’s stamp (1846-61) and alloy “11 OZ.” (that is 11/12 or 916 silver). Very good condition.

Dimensions: H 3 3/8 x W 4 x D 2 3/4 in. Weight: 4.8 troy ounces. #BY966

German Renaissance 800 silver wine bottle coaster, ca 1890. Round and deep well. Central rondel (vacant) in engine-turned frame radiating leaf and scroll ornament on lined ground. Wide and flat rim with embossed curvilinear scrollwork and ovals (vacant) between beaded borders. Fully marked including maker’s (Koch & Bergfeld) and retailer’s (Gebrüder Friedländer) stamps. Very good condition with deep patina.

Dimensions: H 1/4 x D 6 1/2 in. Well diameter: 4 in. Weight: 3.5 troy ounces. #BY...

Oribe is a visual style named after the late-16th-century tea master Furuta Oribe (1544-1615). Typically, black or green glazes are applied to the bodies of these works and light-colored windows are created using feldspar. These high-contrast areas then act as a canvas upon which abstract, minimalistic, and often naturalistic themes are painted.

As can be seen here, this piece is of the green variety and looks to be from the mid-to-early Edo period as can be determined ...

A mesmerizing piece of ceramic art, this exquisite tenmoku tea bowl embodies the rich traditions of Japanese craftsmanship that are inspired by over a millennia of Chinese artistry. With its distinctive deep red glaze, reminiscent of brilliant sunsets, red chili peppers, and festival colors; its presence creates an enchanting visual allure. The bowl's form is elegantly simple, with a gently flared rim that invites contemplation. Crafted with precision and care, this piece reflects th...

German 800 silver figural bird spice box, ca 1900. A raven with hunched shoulders, tucked-down wings, and spindly legs; detachable head downturned with pensive eyes and long pointed beak. A brooding desk ornament guaranteed to ensure stately solitude. Marks include Hanau maker’s stamp (Neresheimer). Very good condition.

Dimensions: H 11 x W 6 1/2 x D 3 3/4 in. Weight: 18 troy ounces. #BZ289

German 800 silver playing card box, ca 1920. Rectangular with straight sides. Cover hinged with chamfered tab; top flat with two glazed windows faced with a King of Hearts and Queen of Spades. Interior wood-lined and partitioned with ribbon tabs. Leather-lined bottom. With cards. Perfect for a quiet evening at home. Marks include maker’s stamp HB (probably Hermann Bauer). Very good condition.

Overall dimensions: H 1 1/2 x W 5 5/8 x D 4 1/2 in. Gross weight (box only): 11 troy ounces. #BZ291 ...

Art Nouveau glass claret jug with engraved silver overlay. Made by Alvin Corp. in Providence, ca 1900. Cylindrical with small lip spout and spread base; c-scroll handle in silver collar. On underside cut-to-clear star. Overlay in form of entwined and scrolling fruiting grapevine with pendant bunches and leaves. Asymmetrical scrolled cartouche engraved with interlaced script monogram. Silver fully marked including maker’s stamp and no. R326. Very good condition.

Dimensions: H 9 1/2 x W 5 1/2 ...

German 800 silver figural bird spice box, ca 1900. A hen with neat feathers and firmly planted talons. Detachable head tilted to side with intent glass eyes and small crown. A sweet barnyard helpmate with funny, flouncy tail. A desirable table ornament from all angles. Hanau marks. Very good condition with nice patina.

Dimensions: H 8 3/4 x L 9 x W 4 1/4 in. Weight: 22.5 troy ounces. #BZ290

Art Nouveau Craftsman glazed earthenware whiskey jug with engraved silver overlay. Made by Rookwood Pottery in Cincinnati in 1893. Globular with short neck; silver collar round mouth with lip spout flowing into c-scroll handle. Painted ear of corn with exposed kernels on shaded brown green ground. Overlay in form of entwined grapevine and berry branches with succulent fruit and outsized leaves.

The painter was Harriette Rosemary Strafer (1873-1935), who began working at Rookwood Pottery in 189...

Gorgeous Titania glass vase by historic maker Loetz with engraved silver overlay, ca 1900. Upward tapering sides with gently flared mouth. Sides concave and corners chamfered. Overlay in form of vertical leafing scrollwork mounted at corners and joined on sides by double arches. Glass is mottled and iridescent white shading to green with exposed patches of the solid cobalt blue interior. Very good condition.

Dimensions: H 8 1/8 x W 3 3/4 x D 3 3/4 in. #BZ193

Pair of Edwardian Classical silver-plated wine bottle coasters. Made by Tiffany & Co. in New York. Each: Round well with concentric rings. Sides have open scrollwork. Flared rim with applied scrolls and scallop shells. Fully marked including maker’s stamp, pattern no. 11743 (first produced in 1893), director’s letter T (1892-1902), and phrase “Silver-Soldered-E.P.”. Very good condition.

Dimensions: H 2 1/4 x D 6 3/8 in. #BY797

Turn-of-the-century Art Nouveau glass vase with engraved silver overlay. Elongated baluster with flared rim and raised foot. Overlay in form of budding and blooming tulips with entwined and whiplash tendrils. On foot is scrolled cartouche engraved with scroll-letter C between the years 1880 and 1905. Glass is green. Silver has faint marks including La Pierre maker's stamp. Very good condition.

Dimensions: H 12 3/8 x D 3 3/4 in. #BZ148

Set of 4 European gilt 935 silver and glass figural Buddha place card holders, ca 1925. Each: Contemplative and cross-legged figure of the Zen-man himself in molded glass. For a Siddhartha serene dinner party. Colors are green, blue, orange, and clear. Chamfered rectangular base and u-form back support. In leather-bound case with fitted velvet and silk lining. Marked. Very good condition.

Dimensions: H 1 5/8 x W 7/8 x D 3/4 in. Case: H 1 1/2 x W 5 3/4 x D 2 5/8 in. #BY940

When the founder of the Urasenke style of tea ceremony, Sen-So Soshitsu (1622 -1697) was invited to Kanazawa as the master of tea ceremony for the powerful Kaga lords in 1666, the first Chōzaemon came with him and established Ōhi-yaki in Kanazawa. Chōzaemon had been the chief apprentice to the Raku family in Kyoto and took with him many of the principles and ideas associated with Raku-ware. Since those auspicious beginnings, Ōhi-ware has held a high place in the world of tea cere...

Modern carving pair with knife and fork. Made by Christofle in France, ca 1970. Tapering easy-grip silver-plated handles. Knife blade and 3-tine shank are stainless steel. Handy for the holidays and all the days in between. Marked. Good condition.

Dimensions: Knife: H 12 3/4 x W 1 1/2 x D 1/2 in. Fork: H 10 1/8 x W 1 1/8 x D 1/2 in. #BX127

Edwardian Classical glass vase with engraved silver overlay. Made by La Pierre Mfg. Co. in Newark, ca 1910. Faceted cone with scalloped rim; round flat foot with star cut to underside. Overlay in form of garlands threaded through interlaced arches (body) and star (foot); scrolled frame (vacant) also on foot. Marks include maker’s stamp. Very good condition.

Dimensions: H 11 1/8 x D 5 in. #BY772

German 800 silver cow creamer, ca 1910. A sweet bovine with upturned horns, flexed ears, and smiley mouth spout. Sturdy sagging body with ring-handle tail and hinged back cover with fly finial. Stands on firmly planted hooves. Unidentified Hanau marks. Very good condition.

Dimensions: H 4 1/8 x L 5 1/2 x W 2 in. Weight: 5.6 troy ounces. #BY777

Traditional Japanese art tends to be timeless and inspiring in form, however, occasionally lacking in diversity and innovation. That is why artists who can incorporate centuries of experiential knowledge and technique into producing new and interesting forms are oh so valued. Though this Bizen jar fits into the category of mizusashi, a vessel central to tea ceremony that holds fresh water, it seems to transcend this narrow category and stands as an independent art object all its own....

Japanese inlay ceramics (zōgan) are created by making incisions on the surface of a clay body which are then filled with various colored clays, creating a pattern. After the pattern is finalized, an overglaze is applied and the piece is sent to the kiln to be fired. As can be seen here, the results are quite striking and produce unique patterns that cannot be replicated through painting alone. Inlaying as a technique is thought to have originally derived from practices in metal and ...

In Japan, famous for its generational potting families, only a handful have made it all the way through to the 14th generation—the Nakazato line being one of them with over 400 years of history. Handcrafted by the current 14th potter in the renowned Karatsu tradition, this piece displays subtle, earthy tones and organic textures reminiscent of nature. Blending elements seamlessly, a canvas is created that complements the beauty of the floral elements in glossy contrast across the s...

With a masterfully applied black Raku glaze and a noticeable aesthetic of austerity and stillness, this piece is what is refereed to in Japanese as an “utsushi” or what we might call in English a “tribute piece.” Such pieces are typically made by all Raku potters, regardless of the kiln and tradition, and seek to emulate famous works from the early masters over 400 years ago—in this case, a tea bowl created by the brother of the second Kichizaemon, Tanaka Somi, born sometim...

First presented at the Ishikawa Traditional Crafts Exhibition, this fine mizusashi crafted with extraordinary precision is a testament to the generational knowledge, skill, and dedication of one of Japan’s top traditional craftsman. Its tapered polished sides have a beautiful texture and luster that compliment perfectly with the hand-crafted custom lid adorning the top. Truly an exceptional artwork fused with the aesthetics of tea culture that gives it a sense of stability, calm, a...

A beautiful old Kyo-ware tea bowl slightly elongated on one end producing an interesting and unique effect. The collector who furnished the box labeled it as being by the legendary potter Ninsei (17th C.). Though the potter’s mark suggests this could be the case, there is no way to confirm for certain other than by its age and undeniably elegant craftsmanship. Believing it to be quite precious, the previous owner bestowed it with the poetic name "Ibitsu" which means "warped" or "cu...

A beautiful and very old Hagi tea bowl; showing signs of long use and appreciation. The gold repairs add to the overall composition and highlight the important role this piece played in someone’s tea practice. Though still functional to be used as a ceremonial implement, this would fit much better as a treasured display object.

In excellent condition this tea bowl is 5.1 inches in diameter at its widest point (13cm), and stands 3.1 inches tall (8cm). It comes with a pe...

Father to internationally known Hagi potter Kaneta Masanao (the 8th generation Sanzaemon potter), though he never achieved the same level of notoriety as his son, his pieces have a grace and elegance all their own as demonstrated here with this charming tea bowl. With its milky crackled glaze and split foot (wari-kodai) showing the rich clay this piece was fashioned from, it possesses strong character and has a calming presence, bringing a sense of stability. Perfect for those deepen...

A delightful Hagi tea bowl from the Jōzan Kiln in Yamaguchi Prefecture. Very representative of the genre with its milky glaze and ido-shape. This piece is a step above their typical offerings as can be discerned not only from the lovely composition but also from the quality of the box and the silk pouch that was also custom furnished. For those interested in getting better acquainted the world of Hagi without spending the thousands of dollars typical for works by better known artist...

Simple yet classic styling—this tea bowl is perfect for anyone looking for the quintessential Ido-shaped chawan crafted by one of Japan’s premier Hagi potters.

Born in the famed pottery town of Karatsu in 1942, Zenzo Hatano spent a number of years learning the various styles particular to his region before taking up an apprenticeship under well-known Hagi potter Yoshiga Taibi. Winner of a number of awards including the Japan Crafts Exhibition Award in 1977, Hatano�...

Large and pretty silver tray. Round and plain well and wide shoulder with engraved and repousse garland; applied rim with leaf border. Marked. Visible handwork on underside. Good condition.

Dimensions: H 7/8 x D 16 in. Weight: 39.5 troy ounces. #BW804

Set of 3 Midcentury Modern shot glasses. Made by Schofield Co. in Baltimore. Each: Straight and tapering sides. Engraved presentation from the Tred Avon Yacht Club in Oxford Maryland. All awarded in 1950s for a comet class boat, which was a snug 2-crew vessel developed in Maryland in the 1930s. One has the boat name, the Eisenhower-era cozy domestic-sounding “We Two”. At top engraved crisscrossing burgees of which one for the club. Fully marked including maker’s stamp and no. 540. Very goo...

Crafted from locally sourced Bizen clay, this mid-Edo period vase embodies simplicity, beauty, and understated elegance. Its unassuming form showcases the natural beauty of the clay, enhanced by a delicate ash glaze. The texture and shape evoke a sense of rustic charm, reflecting the profound harmony between human creativity and the organic world. Now several centuries old, this piece continues to serves not only as a functional display piece, but also as a symbol of the enduring leg...

During Japan's Momoyama period, spanning from the late 16th to the early 17th century, Bizen pottery flourished, producing exquisite pieces such as this symmetrical and elegant flower vase. Crafted from locally sourced Bizen clay, this vase embodies simplicity and understated elegance. Its unassuming form showcases the natural beauty of the clay, enhanced by a delicate ash glaze. The texture and shape evoke a sense of rustic charm, reflecting the profound harmony between human creati...

The poem accompanying the artwork on this antique scroll reads: Fishing little trout—Precious drops of dew glisten—Flowing with the blossoms—The mountains and rivers of spring ( Rengetsu, age 78 ). A rather later and mature work by Rengetsu, this piece was created right as Edo ended and Meiji began, marking a major turning point in Japanese history and culture.

Ōtagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875) was born into a Samurai family but soon after adopted by the Ōtagaki fam...

The poem etched on the side of this exceptional piece reads: "As a pastime ― bringing clumsy, fragile things to sell ― at Uruma Market ― how lonely!"  A very significant poem as it conveys a bit of irony; for the Edo period nun who inscribed this poem would go on to create a legacy of art, beauty, and philosophy that endures even today. The poem also suggests that this is one of her earlier works that would have been produced before she became renowned throughout Japan for her...

Special Offer: Reduced from $1200. now $700. Impressive Ming Dynasty pottery “sancai” green and amber glazed wedding bed. There are two repairs: appears to have been cut in half and then glued back together and there is one on repair at the top of the roof façade- all noted in last enlargements. H: 47cm18.5in and W: 35.5/13.9in x 20cm/8in.

Federal Classical silver ladle. Made by Gould & Ward in Baltimore, ca 1820. Upturned fiddle terminal engraved with script monogram. Marked “Gould & Ward Baltimore” with “11-12”, which was the Baltimore alloy. Gould & Ward succeeded Gelston & Gould and was in turn succeeded by Gould, Stowell & Ward. A genealogy of Baltimore silver embodied in a useful serving piece. Very good condition with nice patina.

Dimensions: H 13 x W 4 3/8 x D 3 3/4 in. Weight: 6.2 troy ounces. #BY489

Chinese silver mug, ca 1910. Straight and upward tapering sides and c-scroll handle. A spare form enlivened with applied wraparound dragon chasing its tail. Marks include stamp for Wang Hing, a maker and retailer in Canton and Hong Kong. Very good condition.

Dimensions: H 5 x W 5 x D 3 1/4 in. Weight: 10.8 troy ounces. #BX461

Large Art Nouveau glass cologne with engraved silver overlay. Made by Gorham in Providence, ca 1910. Globular with short neck and everted rim in silver collar. Ball stopper. Symmetrical overlay in fluid whiplash tendrils and stylized leaves and flowerheads. Elongated oval frame engraved with shaded single-letter (B). Glass is red. Silver fully marked including maker’s stamp and no. D947. Very good condition.

Dimensions: H 8 3/4 x D 5 in. #BY252

Pair of Portuguese Classical silver candlesticks, ca 1840. Each: Globular socket with turned downleaf-and-dart rim; knopped and baluster shaft on domed foot mounted to shaped square base with applied leaf rim and splayed corner paw supports. Dentil, diaper, pointille, guilloche, and gadrooned ornament. Marked. Very good condition with deep patina.

Dimensions: H 8 3/8 x W 3 7/8 x D 3 7/8 in. Total weight: 22 troy ounces. #BV975

Pair of super stylish Art Deco Classical 950 silver 2-light candelabra, ca 1930. Each: Broad and faceted. Two scrolled arms with volute terminals and single socket on reeded wax pan bracketed to baluster with beading draped over top; raised foot. Marked “950M”, which is associated with Belgian production. Very good condition.

Dimensions: H 9 3/4 x W 14 x D 6 3/8 in. Total weight: 69.5 troy ounces. #BG503

A testament to the brilliance of traditional Japanese craftsmanship, this lacquered mizusashi—skillfully handcrafted from bamboo—showcases a deep crimson hue that radiates warmth and sophistication. Its seamless design and flawless finish reflect the skilled hands of the first generation artisan who crafted it, achieving a harmonious balance between form and function. Designed for use in Japanese tea ceremony, this indispensable implement would love to be put back into service o...

The term “tenmoku” (heavens eye) refers both to a shape of tea bowl popularized in the Song Dynasty dating back almost 1,000 years, and also to a style of glaze that these pieces are renowned for. In the case of tea bowls themselves, the troughs often have darker coloration with radiating colored rays and, depending on the style, often resemble the iris of a human eye. In the case of the glaze, the individual oil spots that appear on the walls of the vessel can sometime also rese...

Lake Tanganyika Scene in Watercolor measuring 28”x 33”. More information coming soon

This Meiji period vase is made of fine white porcelain fashioned after classic Chinese motifs.. The potter, first generation Miura Chikusen, is the same generation as many of the better known Imperial Court artists (Kozan, Siefu, Tozan, etc…) and just as accomplished in terms of mastery of technique, level of artistic expression, and volume of pieces produced.

An exceptionally skilled Meiji potter, Chikusen (1854 – 1915) specialized in high-quality Kiyomizu-yaki and...

A magnificent oil on canvas color block study circa 1970, done in the time of then Abstract Expressionist period of Art. Unsigned measuring 59” x 41” Please see #3463 for a matching artwork

Chinese porcelain hat stand vase with a hand painted scene of a boy playfully dangling a toy spider in front of his pet cat. Mother and brother are standing nearby watching. Dates early 20th C. Measures 11.5" high x 5" diameter.

A stylized grass motif painted in ferrous pigment across each side and on the inside of this mukozuke serving dish marks it as being more likely produced in Karatsu as opposed to having come out of a Mino kiln. Though very similar styles and techniques were utilized during the late 16th or early 17th C. when this would have been produced; the color, distribution of glaze, and patterning suggest Karatsu. While at one time this would have been part of a set of 5 pieces, very few sets s...

With an uncanny ability to emulate features of the natural environment, the creator of this sake vessel,Tsujimura Yui, is one of Japan’s most skilled potters working in the field today. With a breathtaking ash glaze that appears half planned and half left to the dictates of the kiln, we can see a number of textures and colors that one might encounter in a Zen garden or while hiking along a mountain brook. The front of the vessel is adorned with an “enso,” however, unlike the tr...

Set of 3 plique à jour enamel and gilt 930 silver open salts. Made by Marius Hammer in Norway, ca 1910. Each: Inspired by Viking longboat with dragonhead stempost and tail sternpost, and rim comprising warrior’s shields. Stylized plant and geometric ornament. Well has radiating guilloche enamel; each in different color (blue, red, and purple). Oval form for stealthy gliding. Fine craftsmanship and rich colors. Beautiful pieces by this maker, who contributed to the revival of Norwegian art and...