Lacquer Sculptures and Carvings

Standing Buddha – Mandalay Period Burma (Myanmar), 19th Century Material: Wood with original gilding and red lacquer Dimensions: 106 × 55 cm This commanding and elegantly detailed s...

This is an old Japanese carved wooden horse, a highly valuable piece created in the late Edo period (early 1800s–1860s). In Japan, it is known as a "Shinme" (sacred horse), a term re...

A wonderful, beautifully crafted Japanese festival Shishi Lion Dance (Shishi Mai) mask (Gashira). The shishi mask represents a mythical lion that prote...

A rare palace size Chinese carved cinnabar lacquer figural box and cover, Qing Dynasty This palace size box and cover is a rare and exquisite piece of a...

A wonderful Japanese Buddhist portable traveling zushi shrine altar with Amida Buddha (Amitabha) concealed inside the folded wood doors. This work dat...

Burma (Myanmar), Mandalay Period, 19th Century Material: Wood with traces of original gilt and lacquer Dimensions: 160 cm length × 40 cm height This finely carved reclining Buddha...

A rather wonderful and quite unique large, hand carved wood (likely cypress) antique standing portrait sculpture/statue of Japanese Zen Buddhist monk or master priest figure. The pi...

A truly beautiful, wonderfully aged, alluring mask made for Japanese Noh theater. The naturally faded beauty and unique character drew us to this mask immediately. The mask is hand...

Here's a wonderful find from our acquisitions trip to Japan. We were fortunate to find this Art Deco period pair (2) matching hand-carved, hand red lacquered and gilt embellished temple wooden benches. The white elephant bench and matching shi-shi komainu temple lion both originally came from a temple near Kobe. Quite sturdy, they may have been entry sitting or shoe changing benches...

This richly sculpted hand carved and gilded Bodhisattva sculpture is almost certainly a fragment of a larger structure, likely an architectural ornament from an East Asian Buddhist t...

A large and serene vintage sculpture of the historical Buddha, Shakyamuni, carved of teak wood, gilt, and embellished with glass "gems", circa 1970's, Burma. The sculpture depicts t...

Japanese Buddhist assembled wood sculpture of Kannon-Bosatsu (Avalokitesvara), the God of Compassion, standing male figure with abundant cloak draper...

An exquisite Japanese carved hinoki and gilt lacquered standing figure of Amida Nyorai, Amitabha Buddha, Edo Period, 18th century, Japan. The spectacular fully gold gilt figure of A...

A striking Japanese carved wood mask with polychrome paint and lacquer surface. This rare mask is dated to the Edo period (first half of 19th century and possibly earlier). The mask ...

This antique Burmese lacquerware offering vessel is a refined example of 19th-century Shan (Tai Yai) style craftsmanship, originating from Burma (Myanmar). Crafted using traditional ...

This truly a magnificent piece. Stunning. Beautiful. Supremely serene. Meticulously hand carved in such fine and amazing detail (see hands and flowing robes). Gilded throughout. Sea...

From our recent Japan acquisitions An important black lacquer treasure dated 1852 with its original box tomobako Superb antique Ohibachi (over sized hibachi) from late Edo era use...

A Fine ‘Noh’ Mask of Imawka The ‘ogee’ brows forming a deep frown A red painted inscription above a distinctive ‘kaō’ to the reverse Wood, polychrome Japan Late 18th Century Siz...

An unusual Japanese carved wood, lacquer, and gilt decorated portrait sculpture of a shogun, Edo Period, early 19th century, Japan. The unidentified shogun (possibly Tokugawa Iey...

A crisply carved antique Chinese red cinnabar lacquer lidded round box with blue enamel interior and brass fittings. The "dragon's blood" trinket box has a fine peony, foliate and fl...

A Rare Hinoki Mask of ‘Ja’ Painted with an earthen red polychrome over gesso, with fine sparse hair, the cheeks with distinctive v-shaped markings, suggestive of dragon’s whiskers, t...

Fine antique Thailand Southeast Asia temple buddha deity temple hand carved wood statue. Carved out of wood and has a hand painted 24 karat gold gilded finish over black lacquer. Won...

Monumental Japanese bas relief carving on natural wood slab Palatial sized Japanese wood carving from the Meiji Period (1868-1912). This stunning sc...

Truly stunning pair of hand-carved wood Japanese buddha statues / sculptures that sit serenely atop their lotus petal thrones. The intricately c...

A truly beautiful and supremely serene Japanese Amida Nyorai Buddha. A magnificent work. Meticulously hand carved in such fine and amazing detail (see hands and flowing robes). Gilded throughout. Seated with narrowed eyes in deep meditation and hands in Buddhist Abhaya Mudra position offering a blessing of protection, reassurance, peace, and benevolence. This hand position, also known as the "fear not" gesture, was achieved by Buddha immediately following his enlightenment. This work is from the late Edo period, (1603-1868)/ early Meiji period (1868-1912). From a California collection. Would be a fantastic addition to any Japanese or Asian artifacts/buddha collection or eye-catching stand-alone accent work in about any setting. One of the best Japanese Buddha sculptures...

A serene and elegant Japanese bronze sculpture depicting a pair of birds resting on a large, naturalistically rendered leaf. Likely crafted during the Showa period, this piece showca...

An antique lacquered and gilt wood buddha head on a custom wood stand circa early 19th century. The statue was finely sculpted with a wood core and th...

Antique Burmese Carved Wood Panel of a Court Scribe. The standing heavenly being holds a manuscript with a brush in the right hand writing scriptur...

Manju-type netsuke (round in shape) in red lacquer, carved using the tsuishu technique, depicting a shōjō (young girl) standing before a waterfall. Round or oval in form, the manju netsuke...

Manju-type netsuke (round in form) in red lacquer, carved using the tsuishu technique, decorated with blossoming cherry branches (sakura). Round or oval in form, the manju netsuke...

Wood netsuke covered with layers of red and black lacquer, carved using the tsuikoku technique (carved black lacquer), in the form of a manju, decorated with a scene of a child benea...

Material: lacquerware 63,5 cm high 38,5 cm wide and 26 cm deep Weight: 1.95 kgs Gilded with 24 krt. gold Bhumisparsha mudra Originating from Burma 19th century Very beautifu...

Antique Japanese miniature model of a suit of armor made for the Boy’s day display. Constructed of a lacquered paper cuirass, upper arm guar...

This is truly a wonderful piece with clear age and a nice patina to it. Very unique. We have not seen another quite like it. The monk appears to have glass eyes which gives his expression a very humanistic feel. The head is removable (please see the last image). From a collection of Japanese arts and artifacts. Most likely dates back to the Edo period. Would make for a nice addition to any Japanese or Asian artifacts...

Burmese (Myanmar) lacquer ware has a long tradition dating back to the 13th century. Lacquer in Burma is called “Thitsi” meaning the sap of a Thitsi Tree (Melanhorrea Usitata). Typically, bamboo and wood are used as a frame or base in making lacquer work. This covered offering vessel is called a “Hsun Ok...

Tall hand-carved wooden standing Buddha. Beautifully carved and finely detailed. Likely Thai or Burmese. Decorated with lacquer and gilt (please see the gilt offering patches. Very u...

A Meiji lacquered box in the shape of a seated lady made by Meigetsusai Kazuyoshi. This is a n extremely rare decorative box made in the shape of a ...

Foo Dogs, or Guardian Lions, are a Chinese symbol of protection, often placed at entrances to ward off evil spirits and attract luck and wealth. This antique wooden pair, with gilt d...

A truly beautiful, wonderfully aged, alluring mask made for Japanese Noh theater. The naturally faded beauty and unique character drew us to this mask immediately. The mask is handcrafted and hand-carved from natural wood, clearly by a master of his trade. We believe this mask is of the Noh theatre character Otobide. This mask dates back to the Edo Period (1603-1868). It comes with a wooden storage box (which may have been added at a later date). A rare, unique, and exquisite mask. Finely carved and executed. Would be a great addition to any Japanese or Asian art/artifacts collection or an eye-catching stand-alone accent piece in about any setting. Mask dimensions: 7.7" high, 5.7" wide, 2.1" deep...

This very large and special antique Burmese Buddha statue is an extraordinary example of 18th-century Shan (Tai Yai) artistry. Expertly crafted from lacquerware and gilded with 24-ka...

A Namiki little round cabinet tray from the Meiji period. This is an amazing and very decorative presentation round cabinet tray created in the Imperial Japan period during the earl...

Antique Shan (Tai Yai) Jambupati Buddha Image, wood, lacquer and gold leaf, Konbaung Empire (1752-1885) A crowned style that displays Northern Thai iconography merged with the aesthetic of Burmese rule in the region. The figure is depicted in the popular Theravada seated position of padmasana, (interlocking legs position) and the hand mudra in bhumisparsa (earth touching) wherein the feet are souls  up, the fingers of the right hand extend beyond the right shin and the left hand palm up resting above the lap. Remnants of the leaf-like kirita crown remain.  The image is dressed in Burmese royal costume with thayo rolled lacquer relief decoration modeled into cuffs, epaulettes, knee pads and a detailed “U” shaped necklace covering the chest. There is also a lappet of clothing between the legs draping down toward the base. The figure is seated upon a tall and waisted throne pedestal having rows of lotus petal grooves on the diagonal portions . The  base and body are carved from one solid piece of hard wood. All covered in black lacquer with thayo lacquer details, red pigment for the lips and gold leaf overall. The Jambupati style Buddha illustrates the tale of the Buddha’s life when he came across the arrogant King Jambupati, a king who terrorized his subjects and who lacked humility and compassion for his people. The Buddha on meeting the King asked that he forsake his evil ways and instead practice kindness to his fellow man. Ignoring the Buddha’s request, the King continued to terrorize the people. The Buddha then in his efforts to change the King of his evil ways, one day magically appeared to him in resplendent royal attire. King Jambupati was in awe of the Buddha’s appearance prostrated himself in obeisance and from that day onward accepted the Buddhist precepts. In Southeast Asian countries like Burma, where rulers have very high if not semi-divine status, tales of this type, reinforced the need for the leader to worship the Buddha, the King of Kings. Condition: Heavy deterioration of the underside of the base as well as the interior portion of the crown, other losses include crown flanges, the crown spire, earrings, the tip of the left thumb, one base corner edge, rolled lacquer losses and general wear of the gold leaf surface, all commensurate with age and wear. Measuring: 22.25 in. high x 8.75 in. wide x 7.75 in. deep(56.5cm x 22.2cm x 29.7cm). Weight: 10.8 lbs. Age: Late 18th century. Provenance: Lark...

Pair large antique 19th century Chinese Lacquer and carved wood figures.

Pair of Japanese lacquered wood figures depicting seated Foo Dogs or Guardian Lions in a deep red-brown lacquer with stylized mane and tail, having reverse painted glass eyes and sea...

A powerful and rare Japanese Buddhist "sacred" mirror and stand, Edo Period, late 18th or early 19th century, Japan. The bronze mirror is housed in a two part gilt wood and lacquer ...

A fine lacquer decorated carved boxwood netsuke of a Noh dancer in a Hannya role, unsigned, Meiji period, late 19th century, Japan. The boxwood netsuke finely carved as a kneeling Noh dancer dressed in striking geometric patterned robes. The actor holds an opened war fan behind their back in one hand, a Shinto wand slung over the shoulder in the other. The war fan, tessen, decorated in red lacquer with a golden rising sun at the center. Tessen were sturdy fans used by samurai as protective devices, and sometimes as weapons. The wand, called an onusa, is a traditional Shinto ritual implement comprised of folded paper streamers, shide, attached to a wooden wand, often used in purification rituals. Here, the shide are crafted from silver maki-e, with the handle of the natural boxwood. The actor wears a fierce and unearthly hannya mask...

A bespoken Japanese historical hat known as Jinggasa (militant hat) that was worn by samurai in Edo period (1603-1868) circa 18-19th century. There were several subtypes of Jingasa a...

This finely crafted piece combines traditional Chinese textile artistry with intricate woodcarving. The central element is a circular silk embroidery, depicting a serene scene with f...

Manju-type netsuke (round in form) in red lacquer, carved using the tsuishu technique (carved red lacquer), shaped as a fan and decorated with a carved scene of a scholar and his attendant. Round or oval in form, the manju netsuke...

Katabori-type netsuke (fully three-dimensional) in carved wood, lacquered in black, depicting the character ju (“longevity”). Signed Zanaka. Ink in East Asia is generally presented i...

A gilt and lacquered wood Buddha statue from Southeast Asia likely Burma, circa 19th century. The Buddha is depicted as seating on a slightly taper...

A beautiful late 19th century lacquer covered bowl that was once used for storing the famous Tibetan barley flour (Tsampa). This beautifully handcrafted wooden bowl has a gorgeous, l...

This antique Burmese manuscript – Kammavaca book is a rare and exquisite 19th-century artifact from Burma (Myanmar). Crafted from lacquered palm leaves and gilded with 24-karat gold,...

A serene vintage Buddha head of gilt dry lacquer in the Shan Burmese style, but made in Thailand for the export market, circa 1960s, mounted on a b...

Large Antique Burmese Monywa Dry Lacquer Buddha. The image formed with a raised triangular decorated base with raised lacquer foliate and floral details, seated in padmasana, (the l...

The antique Burmese offering vessel is a stunning piece of craftsmanship, skillfully made from lacquerware. Standing at a height of 55 cm and with a diameter of 37 cm, it boasts an i...

A stately Shan Burmese seated Buddha of carved hardwood, lacquered and gilt, 18th century or earlier, Shan States, Burma (Myanmar). The dignified Buddha sits slightly pitched forwar...

This old Burmese lacquerware betelnut box is a charming and authentic piece of early 20th-century craftsmanship from Burma (now Myanmar). Measuring 17.5 cm in height with an 18.6 cm diameter and weighing 818 grams, this delicately made box reflects the traditional techniques and cultural heritage of Burmese lacquerware artisans. Crafted from finely layered lacquer over a bamboo or wood base, it would have originally been used to store betelnuts—a common and culturally significant offering in Burmese social and religious practices. The surface likely features classic Burmese motifs or decorative patterns, characteristic of the period and region. This piece is not only a functional container but also a beautiful example of Southeast Asian folk art. Perfect for collectors of ethnic antiques...

A Southeast Asian lacquer vessel of iconic form from Burma or Northern Thailand, circa turn of the 20th century. This covered vessel is called a “Hsun Ok” and was made in the form of...

A gorgeous tall, wooden standing crowned (Jambupati style indicating royalty, accompanied with elaborate decorative wood carved flaming motifs around the head) Burmese (Burma/Myanmar...