It’s no secret that authentic Asian antiques are becoming increasingly difficult to locate. Older antique dealers in Thailand often reminisce about times long gone by when you could buy opium weights in kilo bags for a song and old Burmese lacquerware was stacked up to the ceiling in their shops. The popularity of Asian antiques in America and Europe over the past few decades has lead to a steady decline in supply in the region. Rare styles of opium weights, antique bronze bells, larger antique bronze sculptures and artefacts in general are all requiring a little more time and effort to track down. That being said, we have recently returned from a trip on which we acquired several impressive new items that we would like to feature.

Bronze Sculpture of the Buddha, Sukhothai, ABA25

Seated in the bhumisparsa mudra, or earth witnessing posture, this expertly cast bronze Buddha image is in the Sukhothai style, characterized by a flame-like halo, representing the Buddha’s spiritual intensity, graceful contours and attenuated earlobes. It has been gilded in 24ct gold leaf which is traditionally done in Southeast Asia as a gesture of respect and devotion. Read more…  

Burmese Buddhist Manuscript Box, EUO40

This superb Burmese manuscript box is made of lacquered wood and has been decorated on all panels with traditional Burmese folk art depicting scenes from the royal court as well as Burmese script. There is some superficial wear present on the outside panels but otherwise it is in excellent condition and is without repairs. The box includes four separate wood sections consisting of a base with ornately carved legs, the main box, a shelf and the decorated lid. Read more…

Lanna Ceramic Vase, Thailand, EUO41

From Northern Thailand, this is a lovely example of Lanna pottery. It has been beautifully decorated with a traditional flowering vine motif and is in excellent condition with no damage or repairs, though there is some crazing and accumulated sediment.  In our unique objects category we also have two lovely examples of Sukhothai ceramics in celadon green. Read more…  

Bronze Buddhist Sculpture, Burma, ABA24

 From Mandalay, Burma, this striking bronze sculpture of two angels supporting a temple bell is from the early 1900s. The sculpture is influenced by Buddhist tradition in Burma where the temple bell plays an important role. The angels that support the bell are beautifully cast with elaborate costumes and faces that bear a peaceful countenance. The rod from which the bell hangs is decorated with two peacock motifs. Read more…