Catalog (105)

This is an 18th century, or early 19th century Balinese iron buckle, decorated with serpent motifs with gold inlay. There is some age-related rubbing with associated loss to the inlay, as would be expected. There is an inlaid calligraphic inscription to the back of the "fastener," which I have not had translated. The pieces measure, variously, 2-5/8" X 2-1/2" for the buckle, and 2-1/2" X 1-1/2" for the "fastener." The listing is for both pieces.

A large and powerful polychromed wooden carving of a Chinese demonic altar guardian figure, possibly Shun-Feng Erh, dating to the 17th century. Multiple coats of polychrome confirm the piece's great age. Intact, with, most probably, a reattached break in the figure's sash, visible in the photos. A full exposition of the role played by similar figures can be found in Arts of Asia, September-October 1998, "Demonic Images on Chinese Altars." The piece stands just over 16 inches in height. There app...

Free of any loss or repair, this beautifully enameled vase on a copper base stands some 7-1/2 inches in height. Wonderfully elegant and understated.

A charming, diminutive Ming sculpture of a musician, measuring 4 inches in height. The face has been carefully modeled, as the photos will, hopefully, confirm. The glaze is in excellent condition. Please be sure to look at the last photo, as you will see that the head has been almost invisibly reattached.

A well-modeled figure measuring 8 inches in height. The figure is shown kneeling, with a cape or cloak draped over the left arm, the right hand resting on a knee. A twisted turban sits on the figures head, and prominent "ear-flares" are present. Intact, with losses and abrasions to the surface.

This is a large, gilt terracotta head of an official, dating to the 15th-16th century. The face shows great character and was, evidently, meant to represent someone of importance, given the extensive gilding, much of which remains. The "beard" consists of (I believe) horsehair. The figure was attached to the body of the statue with a wooden peg, which remains. While I have made no attempt to clean the figure, it appears to me that the original gilding/lacquer is present underneath the surface en...

This is a large fragment from a pink sandstone statue of Bhairava, a wrathful avatar of Shiva. The piece is in exceptional condition as a fragment with little or no wear. The darkened area on the tip of the nose is where worshipers have been touching the statue over the centuries, leaving a "sweat" residue. Very finely carved and, as noted, in excellent condition. The piece measures just over 4 inches in height. Mounted on a large clear plastic base (included). For a larger, more complete exampl...

A 19th century felt applique with the archaic designs characteristic of the art from this region. The colors are all natural and unfaded. The piece is exceptionally well drawn and in outstanding condition. It measures 22 inches. A genuine 19th century example.

A superb pair of oriental saddle bags known as a "heybe." Pieces such as this one would have been presented as part of a bride's dowry, meant to indicate the bride's skill as a weaver, a traditional role in the nomadic society where this was woven. The piece features an archaic design known as "elibelinde" and represents a stylized figure with arms akimbo. In outstanding, unrepaired condition with silk highlights. The piece is deeply dyed with strong, vivid colors. Measuring 48" in length and 15...

This is a thickly cast, powerful hollow silver bead depicting a fanged bat, perforated for wearing, should one desire. Dating to between 1000-1400 AD, the piece measures 1-1/4" in width, and sits on a custom stand, which is included. Complete and intact, in excellent original condition. Ex Arte Primitivo, 2012.

Measuring 3" in height, this cast bronze ceremonial knife dates to the period from 700-1000AD, and is from the South Coast of Peru. The upper border consists of a serpent bodied creature with fanged heads at both ends, each wearing a spiked crown. Deeply incised deity heads appear in profile at the top of each side of the blade. The piece has acquired a beautiful blue-green patina. An intact suspension loop is visible at the top,as shown in the photos.

This amulet is carved from a beautiful blue-green stone, most probably jasper and has been done with great attention to detail. The surface has a wonderful "mellow" patina and great tactile appeal. It measures 1"in height and is free from any restoration or re-carving. Inserted on a wooden stand, easily removed, should one desire. Dating to the Middle Kingdom. Ex London art market. Additional photos can be had upon request.

The glaze on this large fragmentary Iznik tile is brilliant, showing no sign of erosion or flaking. Although incomplete, it is probably 90% of the original size and is completely stable. The colors are superb, and the drawing is perfectly controlled, as one would expect to find in the very highest quality ceramics of the period. Dating to circa 1560, the piece measures 9-3/4" X 7-3/8" and is mounted on a custom stand. Similar examples can be found in the collections of many of the major museums,...

A very large and outstanding fragmentary bust of Vishnu, dating to circa the 5th-6th century AD. The statue measures a shade over 6-1/2" in height and is in outstanding, original condition as a fragment. Attached to a custom made base. A related example dating to the same period is on exhibit in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and is included in this listing for comparison (the last photograph).

Throughout Chinese history, the Phoenix has been associated with the female principle and, most importantly, with the Empress. This large, reticulated bronze plaque retains excellent detailing and significant amounts of its original gilding. It measures just under 4" in height and slightly more than 4" in width. Ex Hong Kong art market early 1990's.