Here we have a very unique ceremonial tea implement made by one of the most important figures from Japanese tea culture in the past century. While most tea scoops (chashaku) are made of bamboo, this piece is fashioned from the branch of a plum tree and retains part of the bark on the handle. Fashioned by the 14th Tea Master of Urasenke, this is a very rare and interesting implement. [Sold]

This extraordinary vase is a truly Japanese expression of a classical Chinese form. Fashioned after cylindrical Song Dynasty pieces that are thought to have been introduced in the 9th century from Syria, the handles are of Chinese origin and represent the mythical “Chiwen” (Shichihoko in Japanese). This deity, typically depicted with the body of a carp, the head of a tiger, and the scales of a dragon, is believed to be a bringer of rain and a protector against fire. The outer ring of the foot is unglazed showing the fine porcelain clay this piece is constructed from and the glazed center bears the seal of the Imperial Court Artist who fashioned this piece.

This Meiji period incense burner is made of fine white porcelain with a silver globe decorated with autumn foliage. As with much of Japanese pottery from this era, it is fashioned after classic Chinese pieces from the Song Dynasty. The potter, first generation Miura Chikusen, is of 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.

Etched calligraphy on ceramic. A classic and well-executed example of a Rengetsu cup set. Each cup inscribed with felicitations and wishes of long life. The middle cup is inscribed with the poem, “In the future, happiness, and long life… two sprouting leaves, to grow a thousand years.” [Sold]