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Decorative Arts & Asian Arts — Leonard Joel Pty. Ltd.

Auction House:Leonard Joel Pty. Ltd.Number of lots recorded:578
Sale Title:Decorative Arts & Asian ArtsLots with images:578
Auction Location:MelbournePrices available:315
Date:20-Oct-2020
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A pair of Kyoyaki Tokkuri by Eiraku Wazen (1823-1896), Meiji period (1868-1912), the porcelain sake flasks decorated in overglaze enamels and gilding, one with 'Hana-mon' flower roundels, the other with sparrows flying through a bamboo grove. Both marked 'Dai Nihon Eiraku Zo' to the base in underglaze blue. Each aproximately 15 cm high, 6.5 cm diameter
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A Japanese Fukagawa koi vase, Taisho (1912-1926) or early Showa (1926-1989) period, the globular porcelain vase standing on a splayed foot, decorated in underglaze pigments with a pair of swimming koi. Marked 'Fukagawa Zo' to the base beneath the mount Fuji and stream mark. Together with associated wooden stand. The vase 26.5 cm high, 22 cm wide
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A Japanese Kyoyaki 'Kashiki' bowl by Takahashi Dohachi IV (1870-1915), Meiji period (1868-1912), the lobed stoneware bowl rising up on three short feet, covered in a delicate glaze with mushroom and pink hues. Marked to the base with an oval mark for Dohachi V. Together with a tomobako (original box) signed 'Kachutei Dohachi'. 8 cm high, 21 cm diameter
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A pair of Japanese Arita Ko-Imari Hakuji dishes, Edo period (1603-1868), circa 17th century, with impressed moulded decoration to the interior of a dragon flying through clouds, clasping a flaming pearl. 4.5 cm high, 15.5 cm diameter
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A large Japanese Kyoyaki studio vase by Gyokudo Tezuka I, Showa period (1926-1989), circa 1930s, the large porcelain vase naturalistically decorated with 'Ukiage' (relief carved slip) peonies and foliage against a lavender glazed ground, the flowers and foliage delicately shaded with underglaze pigments. Incised four character mark to the base within a square reading 'Heian Gyokudo'. 33 cm high, 36 cm diameter
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A Japanese Kyoyaki Sencha set, attributed to Rokubei IV (1848-1920), Meiji period (1868-1912), comprising a kyusu (side-handled teapot), yusamashi (pouring vessel) and five cups, in stoneware decorated with iron brown characters. Together with an old wooden box. Unsigned but likely the work of Kiyomizu Rokubei IV. The teapot 7 cm high, 12 cm wide
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A rare Japanese Mingei studio vase by Sakuma Totaro (1900-1976), Mashiko, Showa period (1926-1989), circa 1950s, the faceted baluster-form vase decorated in 'Nagashi-yu/nagashi-kake' technique (glazes poured on creating uneven flowing decorative patterns) with bold splashes of celadon, 'Kuro-yu' (black iron glaze) and 'Nuka-yu' (rice-husk glaze) against a 'Kaki-yu' (persimmon glaze) ground. With a rare iron black signature for Totaro on the base, and accompanied by a tomobako (original signed wooden box).…
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A Japanese Kyoyaki studio Oribe vase by Ito Suiko (1894-1980), Taisho (1912-1926) or Showa (1926-1989) period, circa 1920s/1930s, the tall cylindrical vase decorated with free-form knife cut facets to the sides, lug handles to the shoulder, and splashes of green and iron brown glaze. Impressed mark to the base for Ito Suiko. Together with tomobako (original signed wooden box), with a paper collector's label attached to the cotton ribbon binding. 29 cm high, 10 cm diameter. Other Notes: Ito Suiko studied…
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A Japanese Kyoyaki dish, by Kiyomizu Rokubei IV (1848-1920), Meiji period (1868-1912), the earthenware raku-type dish decorated with an impressed kikumon (Imperial chrysanthemum emblem) to the centre, inscribed to verso. Impressed hexagonal mark to the base for Rokubei IV. Together with tomobako (original signed wooden box). 3 cm high, 23 cm diameter
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A Japanese Kyoyaki 'Kashiki', by Kyomizu Rokubei V (1875-1959), Showa period (1926-1989), circa 1930s, the stoneware bowl covered in a classic Kyoyaki crackled glaze, decorated in grass-script characters in underglaze iron brown. Together with tomobako (original signed wooden box). 7.5 cm high, 18.5 cm diameter. Other Notes: Rokubei V was one of the most important modernist potters of Japan in the late Meiji through to early Showa Periods, with influences as wide as Chinese and European ceramics and Rinpa…
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A Japanese carved Tozan studio vase, Miyanaga Tozan II, Showa period (1926-1989), circa 1960s, the large baluster porcelain vase with relief carved decoration to the surface of stylised scrolling peonies between two lappet borders, the whole covered in an even pale blue glaze. The base with a six character mark in underglaze blue within a square. Together with signed tomobako (original box) and sealed wrapping cloth. 26 cm high, 22 cm diameter
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Two Japanese studio ceramics by Takahashi Dohachi II and IV, Edo (1603-1868) and Meiji (1868-1912) Periods, comprising a stoneware tokkuri (sake ewer) by Dohachi II decorated in Ninsei-style blue enamel with chrysanthemums, signed 'Dohachi' under the spout, and an earthenware raku-style mukozuke (serving dish) in the form of a roof tile, with an impressed mark for Dohachi IV underneath. The ewer 18 cm high, 14.5 cm wide. The dish 8 cm high, 14 cm wide
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A large Japanese Kyoyaki studio bowl by Sawamura Tosa, Meiji period (1868-1912), circa 1880s, the stoneware bowl covered in a creamy yellowish tinged crackle gaze, decorated with thickly applied greenish-blue crystaline glaze to the rim dripping down both the inner and outer sides in large attractve drips. Marked to the side of the footrim with an impressed pentagonal mark 'Tosa'.
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A Japanese Kyoyaki Mizusashi by Shonsui Gorosuke, Meiji period (1868-1912), the covered stoneware water container covered in a caramel coloured 'Ameyu' glaze, with a thick splash of phosphatic glaze to the rim, dripping elegantly to one side. Impressed pentagonal mark for Shonsui Gorosuke to the base. 12.5 cm high, 13.5 cm diameter
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A Japanese Kyoyaki modernist vase, Meiji period (1868-1912), circa 1890s, of waisted baluster form, subtly decorated to one side with a naturalistically modelled bamboo plant and fresh young shoot carved in low relief, the whole covered in an ivory-hued crackle glaze, the bamboo in a slightly brighter white hue in contrast to the background. 30.5 cm high, 40 cm diameter
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A Japanese Kyo-Garatsu vase, Edo (1603-1868) or Meiji period (1868-1912), the bottle-shaped stoneware vase covered in a thick iron brown glaze with phosphatic milky blue splashes around the mouth and neck, in the style of Muromachi period 'Chosen Karatsu' wares. 12.5 cm high, 9.5 cm diameter
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A Japanese Ao-Bizen Kogo by Kimura Toho (b.1928-), Showa period (1926-1989), the stoneware incense container modelled in the form of a monkey mask resting on a drum, stamped to the base with the round seal mark for Kimura Toho. Together with tomobako (original signed wooden box). 5 cm high, 6.5 cm diameter. Other Notes: the Kimura lineage is recognised as one of the six oldest and most important potting lineages of the Bizen kilns, the Kimura family having been recognised by Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537-1598)…
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A Japanese Shigaraki Pottery vase by Imura Kosei (b.1946-), Heisei period (1989-2019), circa late 20th century, the free-form brutalist stoneware vase of hand-formed pentagonal section, part glazed, showing interesting glaze and kiln effects. Together with tomobako (original signed box). 35.5 cm high, 13 cm diameter
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A Japanese porcelain vase by Shinemon Baba I, Heisei period (1989-2019), circa 1990S, the exceptionally large porcelain vase of free organic form, with large areas to the side covered in a rich raspberry-red copper glaze. Together with tomobako (original signed wooden box) and signed wooden exhibition label. 31 cm high, 45 cm diameter
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A Japanese Kyoyaki studio vase by Miura Chikusen I (1854-1915), Meiji period (1868-1912), the glazed stoneware vase decorated with underglaze iron characters, with two lug handles, referencing Chinese song or Yuan Cizhou jars. Together with signed tomobako (original woden box). 14.5 cm high, 17 cm diameter. Other Notes: Miura Chikusen I was one of the core potters of the Meiji period in Kyoto, and one of the 'Senke Jisshoku' (one of the 10 families authorised to make tea wares for the three Sen family tea…
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Three Indus valley terracotta vessels, Mehrgarh culture, circa 3300-3000 B.C. Of various forms, with linear designs in brown pigment. The largest 6 cm high, 10 cm diameter
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Three Indus valley terracotta vessels, Mehrgarh culture, circa 3300-3000 B.C. Of various forms, with linear designs in brown pigment. The largest example decorated with predator cats. The largest 14 cm high, 15 cm diameter
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Three Indus valley terracotta figures of Zebu bulls, Mohenjo-Daro, circa 3rd millennium B.C. Each depicting large-horned bulls with a prominent hump behind the head. The largest 6.5 cm high, 9.5 cm wide
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A Gandharan grey schist Buddhist Stupa fragment, circa 2ND- 3rd century, depicting a row of kneeling worshippers between pillars, finely carved from grey schist. Mounted by brass pins on a custom wooden stand. The fragment 10.5 cm high, 33 cm wide. With the stand, 14.5 cm high
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Two Gandharan grey schist Fragmentary figures, circa 3rd century, each carved with the head of a Bodhisattva in grey schist. Both mounted on perspex stands held in place with brass pins. The taller fragment 8.5 cm high, 6.5 cm wide. With stand 13 cm high
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A miniature Gandharan bronze figure of a lion, circa 2ND/3rd century, modelled as a standing lion with open mouth on a rectangular plinth, with remnant gilding. Together with a small wooden plinth. 3.5 cm high, 3 cm wide
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Three Northeast Indian terracotta fragments, Shunga Empire (185-75 B.C.), one depicting a warrior with shield and spear, another a naked man in erotic pose, the last a head of female deity. Two mounted on wood and black perspex stands, the other mounted on a wooden stand with a brass pin. The head 4 cm high, 5 cm wide. With stand 8.5 cm high
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A Pakistani bronze figure of a Buddhist Stupa, circa 2nd to 3rd century A.D, the classic early form bronze stupa surmounted by a six-level parasol, the whole with remnant gilding and verdigris encrustation. 23.5 cm high, 8 cm diameter
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A small Swat valley bronze figure of a Bodhisattva, circa 7th 8th century, seated in padmasana on a double lotus throne, the right hand in varadamudra, wearing a three pointed crown, the eyes inlaid with silver. 12 cm high, 7.5 cm wide
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A north Indian Fragmentary Buddhist bronze hand, circa 3RD/5th century, modelled in karanamudra holding an attribute. Mounted on a custom wood and brass stand. The fragment 6 cm long. On the stand, 8.6 cm high, 6 cm wide
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An Indian Jain bronze figure of a Jina, probably Bihar or Rajasthan, circa 10th century, solid cast in bronze, standing naked with arms hanging at either side, with a serene expression, the hair forming tight ringlets. Mounted on a custom wood and black metal stand. The figure 24 cm high, 8.5 cm wide. With stand 28 cm high. Provenance: Ex: L. Katatic collection Melbourne, acquired from phoenix Antiques in the early 1980's.
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An Indian or Bangladeshi black stone figure of green Tara, Pala style, circa 10th century, seated on a double lotus throne in lalitasana with pendant right leg, the hands held in dharmacakra mudra. The double lotus throne further raised on a stepped angular multi-level plinth containing guardian lions, deities and attendants. 18 cm high, 12.5 cm wide. Other Notes: for a similar example see Christie's New York, Wednesday 19th March 2014, lot 1082
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Two Indian bronze devotional figures, circa 17th/18th century, one South Indian Vijayanagara style Balakrishna on a lotus pedestal, the other, a high copper content figure standing in tribhanga pose with right hand held aloft. The larger figure 11 cm high, 4 cm wide
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A South Indian bronze figure of Parvati, circa 18th century, seated in rajalalithasana on a single lotus base, the right hand in varadamudra, the left holding a lotus bud. With gilt details. 23 cm high, 17 cm wide. Provenance: Ex M. Lissauer collection, Melbourne
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A South Indian bronze figure of a standing warrior, circa 19th century, standing on a plinth base, dressed in elaborate dhoti, holding a sword and shield in each hand. 31.5 cm high, 11 cm wide
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Two Indian Jain Folios from a 'Kalakacharya-Katha' manuscript, Gujarat, circa 15th century, written in black ink on paper, and illuminated with blue, red and green pigments and gilding. The first folio with two images either side of text in Jain Nagari script, one depicting Sakra visiting Kalakacharya. The other folio with an image to the right of Jain Nagari text depicting Kalakacharya preaching to the Sahi King. Conserved, framed and glazed by the National Gallery of Victoria ('NGV') in conservation…
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A pair of Indian paintings of Krishna, 19th century, gouache and gold on paper with a midnight blue border, one depicting the child Krishna being held by Yashoda on a hill at night with the full moon shining down, the other depicting Krishna bedecked in fine jewels and saffron coloured dhohti embracing Radha who looks away demurely, in a forest setting at night under the new moon. Each approximately 22 cm high, 16 cm wide. Provenance: Purchased in new Delhi, 1960s
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Three Indian paintings, circa 19th century, gouache (two with gold) on paper, one depicting a young woman under a tree with a deer, another (possibly Persian) depicting a male and female Royal couple beneath a canopy with standing attendants, surrounded by Persian or Urdu script, the third a Tantric or cosmological depiction of a multi-headed snake, a blue dog and a tortoise, the snake figure with seven coloured disks to the side, possibly representing the chakras. The largest (cosmological study) 22 cm…
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Two Indian paintings, one inscribed, circa 19th century, both gouache and gold on paper, one image depicting a lady with attendants in a garden pavillion, with Islamic script incorporated into the image, set within a later coloured mount, the other depicting two lovers in a garden in an amorous embrace. The larger work including mount 33 cm high, 23 cm wide. Provenance: Purchased in new Delhi, 1960s
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An Indian or Persian equestrian painting, circa 19th century, gouache on paper from a manuscript, depicting a man on horseback with a hunting falcon, with an unmounted attendant to the left. Urdu or Persian script to the right. 24.5 cm high, 14.5 cm wide. Provenance: Purchased in new Delhi, 1960s
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An Indian portrait painting of a Rajput Noble, circa 18th/19th century, gouache on paper with gold, depicting a seated noble dressed in fine clothes and jewels, holding a carnatian in one hand. 23 cm high, 15 cm wide. Provenance: Purchased in new Delhi, 1960s
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Two Indian folk paintings, circa 19th century, gouache on paper, one painting depicting a mahout riding an elephant, the other depicting Krishna subduing the naga Kaliya, with a gopi and two cows below. The elephant painting 28 cm high, 31 cm wide. Provenance: Purchased in new Delhi, 1960s
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An Indian painting of Vishnu, circa 18th/19th century, painted on heavy card in gouache and gold, depicting Vishnu seated in padmasana, both hands resting in his lap in dhyanamudra holding a golden flaming jewel, wearing a dhoti and elaborate gem studded jewels, his head surrounded by a pink halo. 21.5 cm high, 15 cm wide. Provenance: Purchased in new Delhi, 1960s
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Five Indian illustrated manuscript Pages, circa 18th century, each page featuring a painting of a scene in a rajput palace or hunting camp, surrounded by extensive devanagari script, the reverse of each page also containing devanagari script. Each page approximately 23 cm high, 15 cm wide. Provenance: Purchased in new Delhi, 1960s
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Two Indian portraits of Maharaja ram Singh, 19th century, gouache and silver on oval shaped paper, depicting a Raja wearing jewels including pearl and emerald malas. Both images inscribed in devanagari script above the head of the figure 'Ram Singji ka beta chapdar silji badoor'. The larger portrait 30 cm high, 22.5 cm wide. Provenance: Purchased in new Delhi, 1960s
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An Indian painting of Balakrishna with Yashoda, circa 19th century, gouache and gold on paper, depicting Yashoda breastfeeding Balakrishna on a throne, surounded by gopis churning and offering butter and other delicacies, within a palace room setting. 23 cm high, 30.5 cm wide. Provenance: Purchased in new Delhi, 1960s
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A Ceylonese inlaid ebony writing box, 19th century, the shaped rectangular box inlaid to the lid with a medallion containing an elephant and scrolling flowers, opening to a fitted interior containing two silver topped ink bottles, and 9 lidded compartments within a tray that lifts to reveal a stoarge compartment beneath. 17 cm high, 41 cm wide, 38 cm deep
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A Tibeto-Chinese gilt bronze figure of Amitayus, circa 18th century, the finely cast and gilt bronze image of the Buddha of long life seated on an unusually high double lotus throne in padmasana, both hands held in his lap in dhyanamudra, wearing crisply cast jewels and a high pointed crown around his tall chignon, surmounted by a flaming cintamani jewel. A long strand of his straight hair hangs down to his waist at the rear of the figure. 18 cm high, 9.5 cm wide. Provenance: Soo Tze Oriental Antiques, 2008
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A pair of Nepalese repousse copper plaques of Bhairava, circa 17th-18th century, the heavy copper repousse plaques each showing Bhairava dancing holding attributes, one with him standing on a serpent and Garuda, the other standing on a lotus bud and a goat. Remnant gilding to both plaques. Each approximately 21.5 cm high, 16.5 cm wide
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A Nepalese black stone figure of Vishnu, circa 16TH/17th century, standing upright before a flame mandorla, with eight arms holding attributes, flanked by small figures. Mounted on a later grey metallic base. The figure 64 cm high, 31 cm wide. With stand 70 cm high
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A Nepalese sandstone figure of Bhairava, circa 17TH/18th century, the figure seated in padmasana on a single lotus throne, both hands in karanamudra, surrounded by a flame mandorla. Mounted on a later grey metallic plinth. The figure 40 cm high, 30 cm wide. With stand 48 cm high. Provenance: Ex D. Kharki collection, Kathmandu.
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A Nepalese bronze figure of a dancing Yogini, 19th/20th century, Depicted dancing ecstatically atop a double lotus pedestal, holding a karthika in the right hand. 25.5 cm high, 15 cm wide. Provenance: Ex M. Lissauer collection Melbourne
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A large inscribed Tibetan copper Monk's cap ewer, 17TH/18th century, the extremely large ewer was made for serving tea to monks in a communal dining hall. Two lines of formal Tibetan script (U-chen) runs around the front of the ewer stating that the ewer was commissioned for the Tashi Lhunpo monsatery in Shigatse. The inscription reads 'This vessel made of red sandal-wood and its essence, May bring merits to all sentient beings and accumulate the merits and insights, thus leading to the realm of Buddhahood…
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A Tibetan iron Pen-Case and a silver inlaid Inkpot, 17th and 19th centuries, the forged iron cylindrical pen box with lotus-bud finials at either end, with elaborate scrolling foliage all-over incised decoration. The inkpot of cast bronze with inlaid silver decoration of bats and characters against a diaper ground. The box 37 cm long, the pot 8.5 cm high, 9.5 cm diameter
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A Khmer bronze Owl-Form lime pot, circa 12TH/13th century, designed as a smaller owl resting on the back of a larger owl, with finely incised details, the whole evenly covered in a fine verdigris patina. 13 cm high, 11 cm diameter
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A pair of Khmer bronze kendis, circa 13th century, the baluster form ewers with s-shaped spouts and rolled over rims, both with pleasant verdigris green patina. The taller kendi 34 cm high, 28 cm diameter
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A Burmese marble figure of a standing Buddha, Shan States (1287-1885), circa 18th century, the Buddha depicted in white marble standing on a lotus base, with one arm held by the side, the other hand held over the chest. Mounted on an old wooden stepped plinth. The Buddha 93 cm high, 32 cm wide. 120 cm high including stand
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A Burmese Green-Glazed Relief-Decorated tile, circa 17th century, the earthenware tile with high relief decoration of a winged figure worshiping a crowned figure holding a fan, the face covered in a green enamel glaze. 26 cm high, 37.5 cm wide
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A Burmese Green-Glazed figural tile, pagan Empire (849-1297), circa 12th century, the earthenware tile decorated in high relief carving with a dancing figure surrounded by scrolling foliage, with remnant green glaze. Together with a fitted wooden stand. The tile 18 cm high, 34 cm wide. With stand 23 cm high
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A Thai bronze Sukhothai style Buddha head, cast in bronze and mounted to a tapered wooden stand. Together with stand 14.5 cm high, 6 cm wide
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A Thai Sawankhalok vase, circa 15th century, the pear shaped vase decorated with mythological birds in iron brown under a clear glaze, the base with remnant cylindrical pontil mark. 31 cm high, 17 cm diameter
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Two Thai Ban Chiang clay vessels, circa 3rd century B.C. To 2nd century A.D. Each of globular form earthenware with trumpet shaped flared necks, with combed decoration to the globular bodies, with remnant red ochre decoration. The taller vessel 18.5 cm high, 15 cm diameter
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Two Thai Sawankhalok covered boxes, circa 15th century, both boxes of glazed stoneware, one with a high foot with underglaze iron foliate decoration, the other with incised scrolling foliage decoration and white and iron glazes. The larger box 10 cm high, 10.5 cm diameter
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A large Indonesian specimen of Blue-Brown amber, Sumatra, circa 23 million Years, with veins of clear caramel coloured material through cloudy buff-coloured material. Weight: 1812 grams, 11.5 cm high, 25 cm wide. Other Notes: accompanied by a Klepners fine antique jewellery, certificate of valuation for Insurance: Value $15,000
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An Indonesian cotton 'Ulos Mangiring', Sumatra, Batak people, mid 20th century, the cotton brocade and ikat cloth with vertical alternating banded decoration. 162 cm long, 73 cm wide. Provenance: East & West Art: Fine Tribal and Ethnographical Art of South East Asia (exhibition), 7/8/2010. Private collection, Melbourne. Other Notes: Ulos mangiring is a central textile for Batak ceremonial functions. It is worn as a shouldercloth. In the ritual context, the cloth is particularly associated with fertility…
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A Sumatran cotton vest, Aceh people, mid 20th century, the cotton ground vest embroidered with silk in geometric designs. 41 cm high, 39 cm wide. Other Notes: Sumatra, the western-most island of the Indonesian archipelago, is the site of the earliest traces of Islam in this region. This woman's vest is typical of the Islamic dress styles of the mid 20th century
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Two Sumatran 'Kitang' palm wine containers, Batak people, 19th/20th century, the lids carved from wood with incised geometric decoration with a beautiful patina, dating to the 19th century, each together with a later fitted bamboo and fibre container dating to the 20th century, the smalller container with horn collars. 32 cm and 44 cm high. Provenance: East & West Art: Fine Tribal and Ethnographical Art of South East Asia (exhibition), 7/8/2010. Other Notes: These containers were used to carry and serve…
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A pair of Sumatran wooden figural architectural fragments, Batak people, 19th to early 20th century, the relief fragments depicting Singa faces, with incised geometric decoration and remnant polychrome, mounted on a custom black metal stand. Each approx 33 cm high, 14 cm wide. With stand 44 cm high, 41 cm wide. Provenance: East & West Art: Fine Tribal and Ethnographical Art of South East Asia (exhibition), 7/8/2010.
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A Sumatran wooden architectural panel, Munung, Batak people, 19th to early 20th century, with carved incised refief decoration of a smiling 'Singa' face, remnant polychrome, with a fitted black metal stand. 56 cm high, 27 cm wide. With stand 70 cm high. Provenance: East & West Art: Fine Tribal and Ethnographical Art of South East Asia (exhibition), 7/8/2010.
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A Sumatran wooden architectural element, Munungbatak people, 19th to early 20th century, the abstracted anthropomorphic element decorated with curved incised work, with remnant polychrome decoration, with a fitted black metal stand. 34 cm high, 80 cm wide. With stand 44 cm high. Provenance: East & West Art: Fine Tribal and Ethnographical Art of South East Asia (exhibition), 7/8/2010. Other Notes: this architectural element was originally part of a facade of a traditional Batak house.
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A Dayak baby carrier, Kenyah people, early to mid 20th century, intricately decorated with glass beads in a mask and scroll motif with applied cowrie shells. 28 cm high, 37 cm wide, 17 cm deep. Other Notes: the Dayak baby carrier fulfils several functions, a practical item for carrying a baby, an essential guardian of the baby's health, a display of status and further the ba' is also regarded as a beautiful object, a work of Art.
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A pair of Dayak wooden 'Agom' guardian figures, Iban people, early 20th century, both simply carved, with no limbs, and dagger like tenons as the bases. With a fitted stand. 42 cm & 35 cm high respectively (excluding stand). Provenance: East & West Art: Fine Tribal and Ethnographical Art of South East Asia (exhibition), 7/8/2010. Other Notes: Iban carved protective figures to guard their rice - carved as pointed stakes which are inserted into the ground after the rice has been planted
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An Indonesian wooden 'Adu' male figure, Nias Island, 20th century, modelled as crouching male figure wearing jewllery and an elaborate headdress holding a vessel in each hand. 50 cm high, 13.5 cm wide. Other Notes: the people of Nias placed great value on wooden 'Adu' figures which fulfilled ritual needs.
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A pair of wooden 'Kadauma' roof finials, Sumba Island, mid 20th century, modelled as male figures with cylindrical girdles. Together with fitted stands. 65 cm high & 55 cm high. Total height 71 cm & 60 cm. Other Notes: protective male and female figures are installed on the high rooftops of traditional Kodi houses, for protection against spirits and calamity.
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A Sumba wooden figural tobacco cutter, Kodi people, mid 20th century, modelled as an abstracted female figure with a buffalo horn segment through a hole in the centre. With a fitted black metal stand. 61 cm high, 11 cm wide. Other Notes: compressed tobacco is force through the aperture and sliced. The Kodi people enhance many of their utilitarian objects with figurative elements.
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A Nepalese wooden mask, Magar People,19th to early 20th century, Powerfully carved as an angry male face with incised decoration. Together with a fitted metal stand. 20 cm high, 15 cm wide. 30 cm high total height with stand. Other Notes: the Magar of the Nepalese middle hills practice 'Shamanism' mixing elements of Buddhism and Hinduism. Shamans and special dancers performed with such masks and costumes during sacred ceremonies and theatrical performances.
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An ivory coast carved female maternity 'Waka Sran' figure, Baule/Akan people, early to mid 20th century, carved as a standing female carrying a baby on her back, with black pigment applied in sections, mounted on wooden stand. The figure 35 cm high, 8 cm wide, total height 37 cm. Provenance: Purchased by the vendor from a U.S. Collection. Other Notes: the Baule believe that in the otherworld called 'Blolo', all human beings were married before birth. These spirit spouses called 'Blolo bian' (spirit…
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An ivory coast wood Heddle pulley, Guro people, mid 20th century, carved as the bust of a woman, with a pulley below. 23 cm high, 7 cm wide. Other Notes: These heddle pulleys were used on traditional narrow band looms by the Guro people, and like other functional daily life objects, were decorated for the weaver's delight.
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A Togo 'Vodun/Vodou' wooden 'Mami Wata' cult figure, Ewe people, mid 20th century, carved as female figure riding an elephant holding a spear. 42 cm high, 26 cm wide. Provenance: Purchased from a U.S. Private collection.
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A Congolese wooden 'Mbwoongntey' cup, Kuba people, Colonial school period, circa 1940, modelled as the head of a young woman with braided hair, geometric decoration and a handle to the rear. 18.5 cm high, 12 cm wide. Provenance: Purchased from an Austrian private collection. Other Notes: based on the traditional palm-wine drinking cups, this example dates to the early colonial school period.
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A Burkina Faso wooden 'Wan Balinga' mask, Mossi people, early to mid 20th century, modelled as a heavilly stylized head with a elaborate headdress and geometric decoration. 23 cm high, 14 cm wide (excluding stand). Provenance: Bonham's, period Art and design, Los Angeles 26/08/2012. Other Notes: this mask evokes a mythical figure who was the mother of the first Mossi ruler. Such masks are most typically worn and danced with on the occasion of the funeral of a male or female elder as escorts of the corpse…
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An Ivory Coast/Mali wooden 'Tyekpa' maternity figure, Senufo people, mid 20th century, the large female figure depcited seated on a stool carrying a baby with a high headdress. 60 cm high, 16 cm wide. Other Notes: sculptures of this type were used to honour women and their maternal role in ceremonies and festivals within Tyekpa society.
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A pair of ivory coast polychrome 'Tugubele' Divination figures, Senufo people, mid 20th century, the male figure depicted riding a mule, carrying a sword. The female figure seated on a chair, both with vibrant polychrome decoration. The male figure 38 cm, 27 cm wide. The female figure 35 cm high, 13 cm wide
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A Nigerian wooden figure of a woman, Yoruba people, early to mid 20th century, carved as a standing female figure with elaborate coiffure, on an integral plinth, with remnant blue pigment to the hair. 51 cm high, 18 cm wide. Other Notes: this figure is probably a presentation piece. The rendering of the ear would suggest Lagos as the style location, possibly by Thomas Ona the famous Yoruba artist c. 1900-1952.
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A pair of Nigerian wooden twin 'Ibeji' figures, Yoruba people, early 20th century, modelled as standing female figures, with a darkened old patina and remnant green pigment decoration. The taller figure 22.5 cm high
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A pair of Nigerian wooden twin 'Ibeji' figures, Igbuke compound, Oyo, Yoruba people, 19th/Early 20th century, modelled as male and female standing figures, with a beautiful old patina. The male figure 29.5 cm high. Other Notes: this pair was carved by one of the master carvers of the Igbuke carving house in Oyo Oyo, Nigeria.
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A pair of Nigerian wooden twin 'Ibeji' figures with beads, Yoruba people, mid 20th century, modelled as standing male and female figures, both adorned with antique beads. The female figure 23 cm high. Other Notes: the Yoruba commission artisans to carve Ibeji to represent a lost child, taking care of the figure as if it were a real person.
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A Nigerian pair of wood carved twin 'Ibeji' figures, Yoruba people, early to mid 20th century, the stylised male and female figures each adorned with a wooden bead belt and strands of cowrie shells. Each approximately 23 cm high. Other Notes: the cowrie shells that adorns this figure are said to represent both an offering and an expression of the financial good luck that a well-cared-for sculpture can bring to a family.
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A pair of Nigerian bronze 'Ogboni' Staffs, Yoruba people, early to mid 20th century, modelled as a male and female couple, the male holding a sword in his right hand. The two joined with twisted copper wire linked chain. On a fitted black wood base. Each approximately 22 cm high. Together with stand 23 cm high. Other Notes: Edan ogboni are used by Ogboni cult as a symbol of membership but they are also believed to represent the god Edan in physical form.
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A Ghanaian 'Kente' cotton and silk textile, Ashanti people, early 20th century, Assembled from long hand-loomed strips, decorated with geometric brocade designs in alternating patches in red, green, yellow, black and blue. 286 cm long, 199 cm wide. Provenance: Private Collection, Melbourne. Other Notes: Kente cloth, the traditional or national cloth of Ghana, is worn by several Ghanaian tribes, most especially the Akans, and the Ewe people. This is a fine older example where the weaver is displaying their…
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A Ghanaian wooden stool, Ashanti people, early to mid 20th century, the curved seat raised up on four pillars with geometric designs, 25 cm high, 47 cm wide
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A Ghanaian wooden stool, Ashanti people, 19th century, the curved seat raised up on four pillars with geometric designs. 24 cm high, 48 cm wide
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A Luzon Island 'Bulul' wooden rice guardian figure, Ifugao people, Philippines, early 20th century, carved as a seated male figure with a cavity on top of the head, on a integral plinth base. 42 cm high, 13 cm widethe. Provenance: Bonhams, 'Art of the south Seas', New York, 9/02/2014. Other Notes: Bulul, also known as bul-ul or tinagtaggu, are carved wooden figures used to guard the rice crop by the Ifugao peoples (and their sub-tribe Kalanguya) of northern Luzon.
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A pair of Luzon Island 'Bulul' wooden rice guardian figures, Ifugao people, Philippines, 19th/early 20th century, carved as seated male and female figures, on a integral waisted square section plinth, with fine old patina. The larger figure 43 cm high, 10.5 cm wide. The smaller figure 35 cm high, 9 cm wide. Provenance: Rudolf Kractochwill, Graz, Austria. Bonhams, 'Art of the south Seas', New York, 9/02/2014. Other Notes: Bulul, also known as bul-ul or tinagtaggu, are carved wooden figures used to guard…
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A Trobriand Islands 'Vayola' shield, Massim people, 19th century, carved from a single piece of wood with polychrome decoration to the face, with inset handles fixed through the shield with cane. 73 cm high, 37 cm wide. Provenance: UK private collection. Other Notes: warfare in the Trobriand Islands was pursued with long thrown spears (four metres or more in length), wooden clubs, and shields such as these. Before Trobriands men went to war, the village magician would cast a spell over each shield by…
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A Persian Sarouq carpet, of classic Mihrab design with a central urn bearing floral foliage, set against pillars beneath an arch and surrounded by floral shubs, gazelles and birds of paradise, the border set with palmettes and floral motifs. Finely hand-knotted in 100% wool with a dense pile. 200 cm x 134 cm
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A Persian Jozan carpet, of classic floral design with an elongated chandelier medallion and quartered corner medallions in a cream field of blossoming floral sprays, gulfarang roses and paisley motifs, the border set with rosettes and tendrils. Lamb's (Kork) wool pile, finely hand-knotted weave of 500,000 knots per square meter, 202 cm x 140 cm
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A Persian Bidjar Gholtogh carpet, the bold anchored floral medallion design with quartered corner medallions in a red field of herati mahi patterns, the border set with floral sprays and tendrils. 100% wool, finely hand-knotted village weave from the Kurdistan province, 218 cm x 129 cm
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A Persian Kashan carpet, the rare design of all-over symmetrical medallions of palmettes set within a field of secondary tendrils, the border of floral motifs and tendrils. Lamb's (Kork) wool pile, finely hand-knotted 'Rabani' atelier weave of 500,000 knots per square meter (inscription within the Iranian flag). 217 cm x 142 cm
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A Persian Nanaj carpet, the traditional Afshoon (all-over) design of symetrical stylized floral patterns and palmettes set within a navy blue background, the major border set with palmettes and tendrils, and minor borders of flower heads. 100% wool, dense plush pile, hand-knotted village weave from the Malayer region. 415 cm x 312 cm
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