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New Exhibition Opens at Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

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Aries (Mangala), from a series of Astrological Paintings, Indian, c. 1810, opaque watercolor and gold on paper, 7 3/4 × 6 in. (19.69 × 15.24 cm); Gift of Wayne and Nancy Hunnicutt, 2019.63.1

Mapping the Heavens: Art, Astronomy, and Exchange between the Islamic Lands and Europe
December 14, 2024 – January 11, 2026
Gallery 203

Where are we? When are we?

These fundamental questions drove the development of astronomical sciences and religious practices across different times, regions, and faiths, to map and understand our place in the world and its relationship with the heavens.

The story of Mapping the Heavens at Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art opening on December 14 begins in the Islamic World during the Early Middle Ages (c. 500s – 1200s CE), where Muslim scientists preserved and advanced the study of astronomy. Access to these scientific texts– many collected and translated in Spain in the 1200s and widely disseminated in books after the invention of the printing press in the 1400s–fueled a revolution of new discoveries and created a shared astronomical knowledge across Europe.

The works presented in this exhibition introduce the advancement of astronomy as a multi-cultural and multi-faith dialogue between scholars and scientists, showcasing the beauty and importance of the books, instruments, and images that communicated these discoveries.

To learn more, click here.

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Ink and Inspiration Closing Soon at Fu Quimeng Fine Art

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Installation view, Ink and Inspiration, Fu Qiumeng Fine Art

Ink and Inspiration
Closing Saturday, December 14, 2024
65 East 80th St, NYC

This is the final week to experience the captivating group exhibition Ink and Inspiration at Fu Qiumeng Fine Art.

At the heart of East Asian painting and calligraphy is a deep understanding of the “brush,” and inseparable from that is the use of “ink.” Together, brush and ink have given rise to artistic traditions that have evolved over thousands of years and continue to influence the modern world today. This dynamic interplay between simplicity and complexity—depth and breadth—creates endless possibilities, much like the ancient game of Go, where simple rules lead to infinite strategies.

Ink and Inspiration features a rich collection of works, spanning traditional and contemporary interpretations of brush and ink. Among the highlights are works by Huang Junbi (1898-1991) and Hu Yefu (1908-1980), representing traditional approaches to brush and ink; an early 1941 work by C. C. Wang, capturing his youthful obsession with mastering brush techniques, juxtaposed with a later piece from his mature years that reveals the evolution of his artistry; a piece by Yu Peng (1955-2014), whose innovative compositions and bold use of color pushed the boundaries of ink painting at the turn of the 20th century; a work by Chen Danqing (b. 1953), renowned for his oil paintings but equally adept at traditional calligraphy, with brushwork that recalls the style of Ming dynasty masters; and finally, a collaborative work of Michael Cherney (b. 1969) and Arnold Chang (b. 1954) representing the modern extension of brush and ink into the contemporary art world, where tradition and innovation meet.

This exceptional exhibition invites viewers to explore the profound legacy of brush and ink, a medium that continues to inspire and evolve across generations. Be sure to catch it before it closes soon!

To learn more, click here.

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Asian Art Events at The Met this Month

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Clockwise from Top Left: Ikebana Demonstration; Portrait of the Third Taglund Abbot, Sangye Yarjon (detail), Central Tibet, ca. 1262–1263, opaque watercolor with gold on cloth, Tangka: 12 3/4 x 10 in., lent by The Kronos Collections, Open Studio – Calligraphy

Explore the fascinating exhibitions at The Met this month with an array of engaging public events. Participate in in-person and online lectures, hands-on art-making activities, and an in-depth study session led by renowned scholars and experts. Discover topics such as the intricate symbolism of Tibetan Buddhist mandalas, the artistry of Chinese and Japanese calligraphy, and the techniques behind creating stunning Japanese Ikebana flower arrangements.

The Rubin Museum Distinguished Lecture in Himalayan Art—Outer and Inner: Mahasiddhas Empowered by Mandalas Embodied
Tuesday, December 10, 2024 from 6-7pm
Bonnie J. Sacerdote Lecture Hall, Ruth and Harold D. Uris Center for Education
Free; In-person and Livestream

Presented in conjunction with the exhibition Mandalas: Mapping the Buddhist Art of Tibet, join scholar Robert Linrothe to explore the connection between “outer” and “inner” mandalas. In the Himalayas, these “power objects” are known to dispense blessings and are the focus of rituals, offerings, and advanced spiritual training. Take a deep dive into the Mandalas exhibition and learn about Tibetan Buddhist siddhas, mahasiddhas, and mandalas from one of the world’s leading scholars.

While advance registration is now closed, you can watch the livestream on The Met’s YouTube page here.

To learn more, click here.

Open Studio – Calligraphy
Saturday, December 14, 2024 from 1-4pm
Various Galleries, Florence and Herbert Irving Asian Wing
Free with Museum admission

Presented in conjunction with the exhibitions Chinese Painting and Calligraphy: Selections from the Collection and The Three Perfections: Japanese Poetry, Calligraphy, and Painting from the Mary and Cheney Cowles Collection, explore the materials and process of Chinese and Japanese calligraphy through an artist demonstration, a performance, and art making listed below:

Gallery 217, The Astor Court
Learn more about the art of writing through a performance and calligraphy demonstration by artist Vincent Chong (performing as Crystal Monkey) featuring musical accompaniment by Ariel Loh and Clae Lu. (Note: The artist will process to The Astor Court from the Great Hall starting at 12:45 pm).

Gallery 209, The Astor Forecourt
Explore techniques of ink brush painting and use calligraphic lines to create your own work of art.

For visitors of all ages; space is limited; first come, first served.

To learn more, click here.

Sunday at The Met—Calligraphy Across the Collection
Sunday, December 15, 2024 from 2-3:30pm
The Grace Rainey Rogers Auditorium
Free with Museum admission

Presented in conjunction with the exhibitions Chinese Painting and Calligraphy: Selections from the Collection, The Great Hall Commission: Tong Yang-Tze, Dialogue, and The Three Perfections: Japanese Poetry, Calligraphy, and Painting from the Mary and Cheney Cowles Collection, join Museum experts for presentations about works of art that feature calligraphy throughout The Met collection, including Chinese, Islamic, Japanese, and Modern and Contemporary art. Learn how artists across different times and cultures have explored calligraphy’s capacity for visual, emotional, and social impact beyond linguistic barriers.

Free with Museum admission, though advance registration is recommended. Note: Space is limited; first come, first served. Priority will be given to those who register.

To learn more and register, click here.

Art History Study Group—Mandalas: Mapping the Buddhist Art of Tibet
Monday, December 16, 2024 from 4-5:30pm
Online
Fee: $40

Presented in conjunction with the exhibition Mandalas: Mapping the Buddhist Art of Tibet, expand your knowledge of art history through virtual introductions to core themes and close examination of The Met’s objects with Museum experts. Join Kurt Behrendt, curator of the exhibit, to explore the imagery of Himalayan Buddhist devotional art dating primarily between the 12th and 15th centuries. Learn about Himalayan Buddhist worship through early masterworks juxtaposed with a newly commissioned contemporary installation by Tibetan artist Tenzing Rigdol.

Space is limited; advance registration is required. Registration closes Friday, December 13, 2024, or when registration is full.

To learn more and register, click here.

Ikebana Demonstration
Tuesday, December 17, 2024 from 11:30am-12:30pm and 1:30-2:30pm
Gallery 209, The Astor Forecourt
Free with Museum admission

Learn how to prepare a Japanese Ikebana flower arrangement in the style of the Ohara School from instructor Asae Takahashi. Ikebana, or the art of flower arrangement, is a tradition that has been practiced in Japan for centuries. Blending the concept of natural balance and minimalism, the evolving art form pays respect to both traditional and contemporary aesthetics. In this program, a demonstrator prepares flower arrangements in one of the many schools of style that exist within this artistic tradition. They share their vision for each piece, the creative process, and how these decisions relate to the philosophy of Ikebana tradition, which is rooted in balance, harmony, and the beauty of impermanence.

Free with Museum admission, though advance registration is recommended. Note: Space is limited; first come, first served.

To learn more and register, click here.

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Last Week of Treasures in Miniature at Dai Ichi Arts, Ltd.

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Installation view, Treasures in Miniature, Dai Ichi Arts, Ltd.

Winter Collection: Treasures in Miniature
Closing Friday, December 13, 2024

Don’t miss the opportunity to view this curated collection of small works by modern and contemporary master ceramicists from Japan and Korea at Dai Ichi Arts, Ltd. before it closes on December 13. These thoughtfully crafted objects celebrate the quiet beauty often overlooked in the hustle of daily life, offering a moment of stillness and reflection.

The collection is divided into three distinct sections: ceramics for the calligrapher’s craft, implements for incense, and vessels for sake and tea. Among these captivating works is a new collection of ceramic water droppers from Korea, celebrating the profound influence and shared heritage that has enriched Japanese craftsmanship for centuries. Each object, whether a desk companion or a portable collector’s treasure, invites admiration for its intricate details and masterful design. These miniature works of art embody a sense of beauty in the everyday, making them perfect for personal use or as inspiration on your travels.

As the weather turns colder and the days shorter, we often find ourselves spending more time at home, surrounded by the objects we cherish. Be sure to explore this enchanting collection and discover the craftsmanship and cultural heritage behind these timeless pieces.

To view the exhibition catalog, click here.

To learn more, click here.

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The Rubin’s Gateway to Himalayan Art Closes Soon

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Installation view, Gateway to Himalayan Art, photo by Ryan Hulvat

Gateway to Himalayan Art
Closing Thursday, December 12, 2024
Frank Museum of Art, Otterbein University, Westerville, OH

These are the last days of Gateway to Himalayan Art, the Rubin Museum’s traveling exhibition, currently on view at the Frank Museum of Art in Westerville, Ohio. This engaging showcase introduces the central forms, concepts, meanings, and vibrant living traditions of Himalayan art.

Part of the Rubin’s flagship educational initiative, Project Himalayan Art, the exhibition seeks to enrich undergraduate teaching on Asia by incorporating Tibetan, Himalayan, and Inner Asian art and cultures into undergraduate teaching on Asia. It also serves as an invitation for the general public to explore the profound beauty and cultural significance of Himalayan art.

This exhibition’s three areas of focus are Symbols and Meanings, Materials and Technologies, and Living Practices. Traditional scroll paintings (thangkas), sculptures in various media, and ritual items comprise the diverse range of objects on view. Among the featured installations are in-depth displays that explain the process of Nepalese lost-wax metal casting and the stages of Tibetan thangka painting. Multimedia features include videos of art making and religious and cultural practices, audio recordings of voices from Himalayan communities that highlight the living traditions, and much more on the integrated digital platform that offers rich contextual material to dive deeper.

To learn more, click here.

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Asian Art Treasures Abound from our AWNY Galleries

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As the holiday season is upon us, finding the perfect gift becomes a pursuit of meaning and beauty. For those seeking to offer more than just an object—something with cultural resonance, historical significance, and artistic excellence—we present an inspiring selection of treasures for the discerning eye. From Japanese woodblock prints to intricate bamboo baskets to centuries-old ceramic vessels, the participating galleries of Asia Week New York are an excellent resource for Asian art that transcends time and geography. With prices ranging from $380 to $5,000, these artworks, from China, Japan, India, Korea, and Vietnam represent thoughtful and sophisticated choices for holiday giving.

China and Vietnam

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Kelly Wang (b. 1992), Recluse Studio No. 33, 2021, ink, xuan paper, pigment and resin on aluminum, 6 x 12 in. (15 x 30.5 cm), Courtesy Alisan Fine Arts

From Alisan Fine Arts, contemporary art lovers will appreciate Recluse Studio No. 33 by Kelly Wang (b. 1992). This evocative work, created in 2021, combines ink, xuan paper, pigment, and resin on aluminum. At $2,000 it makes for a striking, modern addition to any collection.

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Zhang Xiaoli, The Gift, signed and numbered by the artist, digital print on silk 数码绢本印刷, 8 5/8 x 10 5/8 in. (22 x 27 cm), edition of 99 (#20/99), Courtesy Fu Quimeng Fine Art

At Fu Qiumeng Fine Art, The Gift by Zhang Xiaoli offers a thoughtful and affordable option. This signed and numbered digital print is part of an edition of 99. Priced at $500, it is an elegant yet accessible piece perfect for new and seasoned collectors alike.

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Bronze Incense Burner in the form of “Du Fu Riding a Donkey,” Ming-Qing dynasty (16th–17th century), H:10 3/4 in. (27.3 cm), L:11 3/4 in. (29.8 cm), Courtesy Kaikodo LLC

At Kaikodo LLC, collectors will appreciate a Bronze Incense Burner in the form of “Du Fu Riding a Donkey.” Dating to the Ming-Qing dynasty (16th–17th century), this rare and whimsical piece is priced at $5,000 and offers a glimpse into the charm and sophistication of Chinese bronze artistry.

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Pair of Chinese Sancai Glazed Porcelain Shoes, His and Hers, Kangxi period, AD 1662-1722, L: 3 3/4 and 4 in. (9.5 and 10 cm); Courtesy Ralph M. Chait Galleries

To the Western eye, Chinese robes and dress, down to their shoes were an exotic curiosity–particularly women’s bound feet. Small decorative objects like this pair of His and Her Chinese Sancai Glazed Porcelain Shoes, available at Ralph. M. Chait Galleries, Inc. for $4,800, have become collectible curios in the West, appreciated for their fineness of manufacture and fascination for all things porcelain.

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Small Eggplant Jar, Le-So Dynasties, 15th-16th c. Vietnam, H: 10.5 cm, Courtesy Zetterquist Galleries

A true gem awaits at Zetterquist Galleries: a 15th-16th century Vietnamese Eggplant Jar from the Le-So Dynasties. This small yet exquisite piece showcases the delicate craftsmanship and rich cultural history of early Vietnamese ceramics. Eric Zetterquist notes, “This jar is a perfect blend of form and function, a timeless object that speaks to a refined appreciation for Asian ceramics.”

Japan and Korea
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Shoun (1870-1965), Snow Peony, 1906, woodblock print, 15.25 x 10.25 in. (38.74 x 26.04 cm); Courtesy The Art of Japan

For those captivated by the beauty of traditional Japanese prints, The Art of Japan offers Snow Peony by Shoun (1870–1965). Created in 1906, this exquisite woodblock print is available for $3,600. Its delicate rendering of the snow peony speaks to a timeless appreciation for the natural world in Japanese art.


Shingu Sayaka (b. 1979), No. 15 “Calyx” sake cup, 2024, mixed clay with glaze slip, with signed wood box; Courtesy Dai Ichi Arts, Ltd.

Dai Ichi Arts, Ltd. features No. 15 “Calyx” sake cup by Shingu Sayaka (b. 1979), a 2024 creation made from mixed clay with glaze slip. Accompanied by a signed wood box, this elegant cup is listed at $380, making it a delightful gift for lovers of both fine art and functional design.

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Kino Satoshi (b. 1987), Thin, curling celadon-glazed ribbon-like sculpture, 2023, Seihakuji (bluish-white)-glazed porcelain, 13 3/4 x 19 1/4 x 2 3/4 in., Photography by Richard Goodbody, Courtesy Joan B Mirviss LTD

This thin, curling celadon glazed ribbon-like sculpture by Kino Satoshi will catch the eye of any design aficionado. Priced at $4,800, it is available at Joan B Mirviss LTD.

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Senshudo (Wajima Lacquer Company), Charger Plate – Chrysanthemum, urushi lacquer and gold, D: 12 in. (30 cm); Courtesy Onishi Gallery

Senshudo, a stunning urushi lacquer and gold charger plate with a beautiful Chrysanthemum motif from the Wajima Lacquer Company is $3,000 at Onishi Gallery.

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Ansei Uchima (1921-2000), Winter Vista, a self-carved, self-printed; titled, numbered, signed, and dated in pencil on the bottom margin, Winter Vista, Artist’s Proof, A. Uchima 1963; Courtesy Scholten Japanese Art

From Scholten Japanese Art comes Winter Vista by Ansei Uchima (1921-2000). Priced at $2,600, this is an original print, which the artist himself drew, carved and printed himself (as opposed to the publisher method of production whereby the artist would make the design and have others carve and print the blocks). Called sosaku-hanga, it’s a specific and more modern style in Japanese art.

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Honma Hideaki, Cocoon, 2023, nemagari bamboo, rattan, 13.25 x 10.25 x 3.75 in.; Courtesy TAI Modern

Nature enthusiasts will be drawn to Cocoon, a striking Nemagari bamboo and rattan basket by Honma Hideaki, available at TAI Modern for $2,500. The artist’s ability to transform humble materials into a stunning work of art reflects the elegance and innovation inherent in Japanese bamboo artistry.

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Tsunemitsu, “Puppy,” bronze, Meiji period, 19 x 12 x 20 (height) cm; Courtesy Hiroshi Yanagi Oriental Art

For animal lovers, the Meiji period bronze “Puppy” by Tsunemitsu, at Hiroshi Yanagi Oriental Art, is a heartwarming option. Priced at $2,500, this charming sculpture captures the playful spirit of a young pup, making it an ideal gift for someone who treasures both art and animals.

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Cho Yong-ik, Mountain, watercolor on paper, 10 1/8 x 13 3/4 in. (25.7 x 35 cm); Courtesy HK Art & Antiques LLC

HK Art & Antiques LLC presents Mountain by the Korean artist Cho Yong-ik, a serene and evocative watercolor on paper. Offered at $3,000, this artwork captures the beauty of nature in an understated yet deeply expressive manner.

India

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Carpet Weight in the Form of an Elephant, India, 18th century, marble, 4 3/8 by 4 3/8 in. (11.1 by 11.1 cm); Courtesy Carlton Rochell Asian Art

Typically made from cotton or silk, carpet weights were used on a terrace or veranda to hold light-weight summer carpets in place at the corners in case there was a breeze. This Marble Elephant, at Carlton Rochell Asian Art, is priced at $2,500.

These treasures—and many more—await discovery across Asia Week New York’s other participating galleries. Each piece tells a story, offering not just a gift but a connection to the rich heritage and artistic traditions of Asia. For more information about all our AWNY member galleries, visit click here.

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Spacetime and Landscapes Features Works of Eric Zetterquist

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Installation view, Spacetime and Landscapes, Wangye Museum, Shenzhen

Spacetime and Landscapes
November 28, 2024 – May 17, 2025
Wangye Museum
Songshan Lake, Dongguan, Shenzhen

Eric Zetterquist, founder of the esteemed Zetterquist Galleries, is delighted to announce the opening of Spacetime and Landscapes, an exhibition showcasing his Object Portraits at the Wangye Museum in Shenzhen, China. Inspired by the museum’s collection of Chinese ceramics and artifacts, Zetterquist reinterprets these historical objects through a contemporary lens. His meticulous focus on minute details and the interplay of negative space transforms each artifact into an abstracted, modern composition. The resulting works transcend time, capturing a distilled essence of the ancient forms while reimagining their significance within a minimalist visual language.

To learn more about these works, click here.

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Sign up for the Rubin’s Spiral Magazine

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Spiral Magazine, Reframe, Issue 8, Courtesy the Rubin

The Rubin is mailing their upcoming spring issue of Spiral Magazine to the first 2,000 people who sign up for the publication by December 31!

Spiral is the Rubin’s signature magazine offering readers an in-depth exploration of Himalayan art, culture, and ideas. Through a rich combination of essays, interviews, and visuals, Spiral delves into the museum’s exhibitions, programs, and collections, connecting them to broader themes of mindfulness, philosophy, and contemporary relevance. As a thoughtful platform for experts, artists, and thinkers to share insights, this annual publication inspires readers to engage with the profound heritage of Himalayan traditions in fresh and meaningful ways.

To learn more and reserve your free copy today, click here.

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Museum Spotlight: Porcelains in the Mist: The Kondō Family of Ceramicists Closing Soon at Brooklyn Museum

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Kondō Takahiro (Japanese, born 1958), Reflection: TK Self Portrait, 2010., glazed porcelain, 19 1/16 × 6 3/16 in. (48.5 × 15.7 cm); Carol and Jeffrey Horvitz Collection, © Kondō Takahiro. (Photo: Richard P. Goodbody and John Morgan)

Museum Spotlight: Porcelains in the Mist: The Kondō Family of Ceramicists
Closing Sunday, December 8, 2024
Arts of Japan, 2nd Floor

There’s still time to catch Porcelains in the Mist: The Kondō Family of Ceramicists at the Brooklyn Museum before it closes on December 8.  This extraordinary exhibition celebrates the groundbreaking artistry of the Kondō family, featuring sixty-one stunning works that trace three generations of innovation in Japanese ceramics.

The exhibit highlights the artistic legacy of Kondō Yūzō (1902–1985), a designated Living National Treasure, and his descendants—Kondō Hiroshi (1936–2012), Kondō Yutaka (1932–1983), and contemporary artist Kondō Takahiro (b. 1958). Together, they transcended traditional techniques to embrace original, individual expression.

Tracing this evolution, the exhibit showcases early creations ranging from freehand-painted vases and pure-white jars to Kondō Takahiro’s mesmerizing porcelain sculptures. These striking pieces, often self-portraits, are glazed in deep shades of blue and adorned with metallic droplets known as “silver mist” or gintekisai. Both the term and the intricate glazing technique are innovations of Takahiro, demonstrating his mastery and ingenuity. Several of these powerful porcelains reflect his personal responses to monumental events, particularly the 2011 earthquake and tsunami that devastated northeastern Japan.

Learn more about how each generation of the Kondō family has distinguished their innovation from Curator Joan Cummins here.

To learn more about the exhibit, click here.

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Heritage Auctions’ Asian Art Showcase

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A Chinese White Jade Figural Group of Boys on Elephant, 20th century, 3-1/2 x 2-3/8 x 1-3/8 inches (8.9 x 6.0 x 3.5 cm), Estimate: US$700-1,000, Lot #25024, Asian Art Showcase Auction #12157, December 10, 2024

Asian Art Showcase Auction #12157

December 10, 2024 at 12pm (EST)
2801 W. Airport Freeway, Dallas 

Heritage Auctions is thrilled to present its upcoming Asian Art Showcase offering a diverse array of fine artworks, including exquisite Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Southeast Asian pieces. Highlights include Chinese-Blue-and-White ceramics, intricately carved jade figurines, and Indian gilt bronze statues. Discover treasures that span centuries, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of some of Asia’s most esteemed traditions.

To learn more and place live proxy bids, click here.

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