Cotton Metalwork

A wonderful, brightly coloured and somewhat rare fully intact Japanese Buddhist monk/ priest's Kesa ceremonial silk robe. Kesa (which came from the Chinese word "kasaya") robes have been handmade/handstitched by monks/priests as an act of devotion as ceremonial robes for centuries in various Asian cultures (Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Indian, etc). The kesa is a rectangular garment designed to be worn over the left shoulder (see example image). The robes are made (often in a patchwork column pattern ranging from five, seven, nine or more pannels) specifically for fully ordained Buddhist monks, priests and nuns and are made from donations of exquisite textiles from wealthy patrons of Japanese Buddhist temples. The robes were used in daily ceremonies, temple gatherings, and private meditation. Antique Kesa robes...

A fine and beautifully enameled Chinese cloisonne incense burner, censer, with pierced cover, mid 20th century, circa 1960's, China. The ce...

A dramatic Japanese iron tsuba in the nanban (foreign) style, decorated with dragons and openwork and inlaid with silver and gold, Edo Period, early 19th century, Japan. The fantast...

Asian Chinese imports oval metal brass tray, hammered and chiseled, engraved with dragons and different scenes of wild animals, ancient pagodas homes an...

A Japanese silk Fukusa panel circa late 19th-early 20th century of Meiji Period. The front was beautifully decorated with Yuzen-zome, a labor intensive resist-dye technique invested ...

A Chinese Brass Double Fish Shaped Lock with Key, Early 20th Century Provenance: Private Australian Collection. Dimension: Width: 13cm Height: 1cm Depth: 7cm.

A Japanese Kesa (Monk's Vestment) made from thirteen columns of patchworks of fine shimmering silk fabric of a salmon orange color, the shade of which changed subtly from different a...

An unusual antique Japanese gilded bronze basket of folded paper form body with applied panels and decoration dating from the 19th century and either late Edo or early Meiji period (...

Japanese, Edo Period (1603-1868), likely late 18th century. Step into the rich tapestry of Japanese history with this exquisite 18th-century Edo Period Lacquer & Chain Mail Suit of Armor, a masterpiece that seamlessly blends martial craftsmanship with artistic elegance. Crafted during a period of unparalleled cultural refinement, this armor is a testament to the meticulous skill and dedication of Japanese artisans. The Gosuko armor, at the heart of this ensemble, embodies the traditional armor design of the Edo Period. Each meticulously lacquered plate, carefully adorned with ornate motifs, reflects not only the functional sophistication required for battle but also the aesthetic sensibilities intrinsic to Japanese art. The incorporation of chain mail adds a layer of flexibility and mobility, harmonizing the demands of protection with the fluidity required in combat. A crowning glory to this armor is the Kabuto Helmet, an iconic symbol of samurai identity and resilience. Its design not only provides formidable protection but also serves as a canvas for artistic expression. The helmet's form, combined with lacquer embellishments and a crest, creates a striking visual statement, a representation of the wearer's identity and lineage. To complete the ensemble, the armor comes with a brocade fabric, adding a touch of regality to this already magnificent piece. The interplay of textures and colors in the brocade further elevates the visual impact, turning the act of donning this armor into a ceremonial experience. For the discerning collector, this piece is presented in a lacquer armor box, meticulously crafted to safeguard and showcase the historical significance of the armor. The accompanying wood armor display stand serves as a stage, allowing this masterpiece to command attention in any setting, whether it be a private collection, museum exhibit, or a distinguished living space. Owning this 18th-century Japanese Edo Period Lacquer...

A large Chinese cloisonné dish with dragon decoration from the 19th century Good condition, no chips or loose enamel parts Diameter 36.5 cm Cloisonné is an ancient technique for dec...

A well cast and powerful Chinese dragon bronze altar vase with arrow handles, Qing Dynasty, 18th century or earlier, China. The altar vase of bottle form, set on a high, splayed r...

Kesa, known as "Jiasha" in Chinese and "Kasaya" in Sanskrit, is an out layer garment worn by the ordained Buddhist monks. Bearing a basic rectangular form, it developed originally in...