Gold Leaf Antiquities

This elegant katana kake (sword stand) is crafted from wood and finished with a rich lacquer coating. Its surface is adorned with a striking gold maki-e depiction of a dragon — a tim...

Important unique set of two suits-of-armour (yoroi), complete with two high six-panel screens, that belong together as is indicated by the used family crests (mon). Two crests are used, both belonging to the Nakagawa family of Oka Castle, Ôita prefecture on Kyûshû. They are: – the Nakagawa-kurusu, a circle depicting a Celtic-like cross through a ring. The cross was originally a Christian symbol but after the ban on Christianity in Japan the use of a hidden cross in family crests could continue. – the Nakagawa-kashiwa, two leaves of the Japanese Emperor Oak turned to each other (dakikashiwa mon). The remarkable aspect of this ensemble is the presence of matching crests on both the yoroi and the accompanying folding screens. The kurusu and kashiwa crests adorning the yoroi are elegantly replicated on the screens, providing compelling evidence that these pieces form a harmonious and unified set. This exceptional cohesion between the armour and screens further enhances their artistic and historical value. After the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537-1598) had interfered in the battle between the Lord of Bungo Province Ôtomo Yoshi-mune (1558-1605) and the Shimazu of Hyûga Province, he split the Bungo Province in a number of small fiefs and transferred in 1594 Nakagawa Hideshige (1570-1612) from Miki Castle in the Harima Fief to Oka Castle in Kyûshû. The Nakagawa family stayed in possession of Oka Castle till the abolishment of the military use of castles in 1873. In 1884 the Nakagawa family received the title of Count (a title in use till the abolishment of aristocracy in 1947). After the Nakagawa’s left, the castle and the building soon dilapidated and is now known as Oka Castle Ruins. The castle is located in Taketa Village part of Taketa Town in Ôita Province on Kyûshû. > Set of two tall byôbu (folding screens), painted with large red jinmaku (camp enclosure curtain) on a gold leaf ground. The curtains show both crests of the Nakagawa family: one screen depicts two Nakagawa-kurusu crests next to a Nakagawa-kashi crest in the middle, and the other shows the symbols the other way round. Dimensions: Total width 148.66 in/377.6 cm (2 x 25.35 in/64.4 cm, 4 x 24.48 in/62.2 cm); Height 72.63 in/184.5 cm. Period: Japan – Late Edo period (First half 19th century), and maybe even older. > Yoroi with Nakagawa-kashiwa crest: A Japanese black lacquered suit-of-armour (yoroi) completely laced with orange cords (kuro’urushinuri hi’ito odoshi nimai’dô’maru). A thirty-two plate suji’bachi kabuto (helmet with raised ridges) with in front a maedate (fore crest) -with traces of gilding- in the shape of flames, resembling a mythical flaming bird flying down. The fukikaeshi (face guards) and the mabizashi (visor) have the Nakagawa-kashiwa crest in gold maki-e lacquer. Five curved ‘itazane’-plate neck guards (shikoro) laced with orange cords. Together with an ‘angry man...

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...

Shibayama urm from the Japan meiji (1858-1912) period. Gorgeous piece of art, created in the imperial Japan during the Meiji period, circa 1890. This is a little urn with a lid crafted in gilded wood, shibayama panels and sterling silver. Composed by a four footed round vase with two sterling silver handles in the shape of trees and the lid on top accented with the figure of a crab in sterling silver. The gilded wood is decorated with flowers, sea patterns and the imperial flower...

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...

Lacquered bowl in gold leaf from Myanmar

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...

Fine antique 19c Burmese Southeast Asia temple Mandalay buddha deity hand carved wood statue. Carved out of wood and has a hand painted 24 karat gold gilded finish over black lacquer...

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...

Finely detailed illustration of the feet of Lord Rama. The feet are labeled with illustrative symbols, including a lotus flower, shells, and crescent moons. There are a total of 17 s...