Here in the UK January eventually delivered up freedoms from the government’s covid plan B restrictions, workers are returning to the offices, and at last a semblance of normality appears on the horizon as we look forward to the spring. But complacent we shouldn’t be, whilst I may opt for some light lunches with friends or business colleagues it is certainly far too early for celebrations and work parties, oh hang on?
February Newsletter Steve Sly Japanese Art
In last months newsletter we offered this super quality Japanese Satsuma vase by Yabu Meizan. I am pleased to say it is now residing in the home of a collector in the far east, that particular collector was kind enough to leave a google review expressing their delight and showing images of the vase.
As you may know I am just going through the lengthy process of designing and building a new website for Steve Sly Japanese art.com, or rather Scott and the team at the antique marketing company are doing the building, whilst I am helping with the content. Amongst the new features will be a link for reviews. These will be invaluable in assisting new collectors in their decision-making process.
As a society we continue to rely so heavily on reviews for restaurants, hotels and holidays. When you consider that a meaningful purchase of art can cost multiple times a meal or hotel stay, it seems only right to offer as much information as possible to the prospective buyer. Below is a link to our Google reviews if you feel inclined to add something helpful to potential buyers that would be much appreciated.
In mid-January I reached out to Zara’s team at The Antique Marketing Company who used the power of social media to appeal for a new home for this exceptional quality “Hare with the amber eyes”. I am delighted to say this most charming okimono is now residing in a Japanese art enthusiasts farmhouse, where we are advised that hares and leverets roam freely in the grounds. A fitting end to what may well be our last ever sale of a carved Ivory okimono, I think you’ll agree we have gone out on a high.
In early January we sold this superb quality Japanese shibuichi and mixed metal tsuba (sword hand guard) to a collector in New Zealand, the gentleman was delighted upon safe receipt, the tsuba formed part of a small collection that we are slowly listing. Also from that collection are the sensational shakudo tsuba with the gold carp and the nanako ground shakudo tsuba with the gold lobster, both now available to view in the metalwork section of our gallery, take a look here.
Next month sees the return of the Chelsea antiques and fine art fair, running between Wednesday 23rd and Sunday 27th with a private collectors preview on the afternoon of the 22nd Such was the demand following the successful launch back in September that there have been some subtle changes to the layout in order to accommodate a broader range of dealers, please visit our website at www.chelseaantiquesfair.co.uk to see the exhibitors list, the floor plan and to apply for complimentary tickets. I once again look forward to seeing some of you there in person.
Finally for this month I invite you to take first look at this large copper and mixed metal vase depicting an Egret in flight above a lakeside setting, as you will see in my description the highly skilled metalworker Akimitsu has spent literally days, if not weeks, hand beating a sheet of copper into this splendid vessel, before adding the handmade silver Egret as well as other mixed metal elements. The vase proved incredibly difficult to photograph, but I feel we have now represented it in its actual tone of a darkened copper. Such a unique one-off piece of Meiji periodmetalwork deserves a home where its manufacturing complexities will be appreciated as much as its obvious decorative values.
There is some very exciting news on the horizon for March but for now do take care and keep safe.
