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Folk Art of Japan


Japanese Folk Art or Mingei is a category of exceptional antique and vintage items that were initially created by unknown craftsmen for utilitarian use but have become popular in the collecting world for their unique artistic appeal. Because of their warm, earthy nature and striking, often exotic, shapes, textures and colors, Japanese folk mingei items make fabulous additions to any environment.

Some folk art you will find at Jcollector are Japanese dolls, Japanese textiles (kimono, obi, noren, nobori banners), Japanese pottery and ceramics (sake, rice and tea jars, bottles, barrels, buckets), Japanese kanban shop signs, bird cages, bento and lunch boxes, roof tiles, tea kettles (tetsubin) and utensils.

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Japanese Bronze Okimono, Double Gourd
Japanese Bronze Okimono, Hyotan Double Gourd - JK88123
Our Price: $795.00

Wonderful Japanese bronze hyotan double-gourd okimono, Taisho period, c. 1912-1926. Excellent detail in finely rendered traditional gourd motif.  Dynamic metal work, lovely composition and craftsmanship.   A striking example in very good condition. Dimensions:  5” x 9.25” x 6”.
Japanese Wood Carving, Kiri Frog Okimono
Japanese Wood Carving, Kiri Frog Okimono - JK88124
Our Price: $295.00

Delightful Japanese carved kiri (paulownia) wood okimono, early 20th century. Whimsical frog form, exceptional wood grain, fine composition and simple charm.  A unique piece for the collector of Mingei folkcraft.  Very good condition. Dimensions:  3” x 7” x 6”.
Japanese Tanuki, Cast-Iron Badger Okimono
Japanese Tanuki, Cast-Iron Badger Okimono - JC88143
Our Price: $795.00

Enchanting Japanese cast-iron tanuki or mischievous badger okimono, Showa period, early 20th century. A mythical creature known for mischief, the whimsical tanuki was adopted as a symbol of aristocratic excess during the Edo period. Often displayed in front of sake houses to hint at the entertainment offered therein. Wonderful, detail and exceptional, imaginative crafting. Very good condition. Dimensions:  23” x 10” x 9”.
Japanese Kutani Porcelain Hotei Okimono
Japanese Kutani Porcelain Hotei Okimono - JC8883
Our Price: $695.00

Fantastic Japanese Kutani porcelain rendering of mythical god Hotei, Taisho period, c. 1912-1926.  Fine, old patina, dazzling Kutani colors and delightfully animated countenance.  Hotei is the legendary god of happiness, laughter, abundance and the wisdom of contentment. A wonderful rendering in very good condition.  Dimensions:  15” x 10” x 9”.
Japanese Kanban, Wood Shop Sign Tea Room
Japanese Kanban, Wood Shop Sign for Tea Room - JJ88171
SOLD
Our Price: $495.00

Sublime Japanese wood kanban shop sign for tea room, mid-20th century.  Dramatic calligraphy on single plank of keyaki (zelkova) wood.  Inscribed on reverse Shin Nyorai.  A wonderful find for the Mingei collector! Very good condition. Dimensions:  30” wide, 16.5” high, 2” deep.
Japanese Kanban Shop Sign for Tea Room
Japanese Kanban Shop Sign for Tea Room - JJ88172
SOLD
Our Price: $495.00

Fantastic Japanese kanban or shop sign for tea room, inscribed c. 1941.  Dramatic calligraphy in appealing richly grained ground.  Artist mark Hirosumi.  A great find for the Mingei collector!  Very good condition.  Dimensions:  52” wide, 14.5” high, 2” deep.
Japanese Snow Lantern, Iron Garden Lamp
Japanese Snow Lantern, Iron Garden Lamp - JK88122
SOLD
Our Price: $3,995.00

Highly sought-after Japanese iron snow lantern, Taisho period, c. 1912-1926.  Elegant broad roof traditionally used to keep melting snow from extinguishing the lighted candle inside.  Often seen in the tea or temple garden.  Raised calligraphy on the roof adds great rustic charm.  Multi-sectional lantern with tripod feet.  Ideal for any Asian landscape decor.  Very good condition.  Dimensions:  15” high, 19” diameter.
Japanese Painting, Wooden Ema Temple Votive
Japanese Painting, Wooden Ema Temple Votive - JJ88917
Our Price: $395.00

Striking Japanese wooden ema temple votive, Taisho period, c. 1912-1926. Traditionally donated to a Japanese shrine or temple when petitioning for a blessing or good fortune, such as victory in battle. Delightful rendering of animated horse, the traditional motif for such a gift, and signed by artist. Very good condition. Dimensions:  14” x 21”.
Japanese Bronze Wall Hanging, Kotobuki Long Life
Japanese Bronze Wall Hanging, Kotobuki Long Life - JK87276
Our Price: $395.00

Whimsical Japanese bronze character, mid-20th century. Wonderfully rendered in heavy weight with great dynamism.  Reads kotobuki or long life.  Great for use in garden or interior. Very good condition. Dimensions:  16” x 12.25”.
Japanese Keyaki Wood Grinder, Mingei
Japanese Keyaki Wood Grinder, Mingei Folkcraft - JC8MY315
Our Price: $450.00

Wonderful Japanese Keyaki wood grinder, Meiji period, c. 1868-1912.  Finely carved with fine patina acquired over time with use.  A great piece of Japanese Mingei folkcraft.  Very good condition.  Dimensions: 5” x 17” x 7”; wheel 12” w/ handle, 9” diameter.
Japanese Hardwood Tea Tray, Samurai Poetry
Japanese Hardwood Tea Tray, Poetry from Samurai Code - JJ8775
Our Price: $295.00
Sale Price: $236.00

Charming Japanese hardwood incense tray, Taisho period, early 20th century. Elegant rendering of poetry from the code of the samurai, Ako-Roshi, penned during the Edo period.  Fabulous squared shape with gently rounded inset, and beautiful gilt calligraphy and floral accents.  Great charm in craftsmanship.  Traditionally used to hold incense before it is used in the tea ceremony.  A lovely piece for display or traditional use.  Very good condition. Dimensions:  8” square.
Chinese Hardwood Calligraphy Box with Inkstone
Chinese Hardwood Calligraphy Box with Inkstone - JK8771
Our Price: $795.00

Beautiful Chinese hardwood calligraphy box with inkstone, 19th century.  Charming motif of mythical minogame tortoise under vine on exterior.  Inside is additional carving along with well-worn inkstone. Rich, aged patina.  A well-loved and utilized piece! Very good condition.  Dimensions:  2.5” x 9” x 7.5”.
Japanese Wood and Gilt Architectural Element
Japanese Wood and Gilt Architectural Element - JJ8MY503
SOLD
Our Price: $195.00
Sale Price: $156.00

Beautiful Japanese handcarved wood and gilt architectural temple shrine element, Taisho, c. 1912-1926. Remarkable, finely detailed three-dimensional foo dog motif.  Highly animated meticulously crafted.  Very good condition.  Dimensions:  6” x 4”.
Japanese Calligraphy Brush
Japanese Calligraphy Brush, Large Size with Storage Box - JJ8MY504
Our Price: $295.00
Sale Price: $236.00

Superb Japanese calligraphy brush with storage box, early 20th century.  Handle crafted of bamboo with lovely variations in color and great patina. Tip has been strung with cord for hanging. A fine traditional piece in very good condition. Length:  17”.
Japanese Wood and Gilt Architectural Element
Japanese Wood and Gilt Architectural Element, Waterfall - JJ8MY506
Our Price: $195.00
Sale Price: $156.00

Beautiful Japanese handcarved wood and gilt architectural temple shrine element, Taisho, c. 1912-1926. Remarkable, finely detailed three-dimensional waterfall motif.  Very good condition.  Dimensions:  7.75” x 5”.
Pair Japanese Wood and Gilt Architectural Elements
Pair Japanese Wood and Gilt Architectural Elements, Chrysanthemum - JJ8MY508
Our Price: $295.00
Sale Price: $236.00

Striking pair Japanese handcarved wood and gilt architectural temple shrine elements, Taisho, c. 1912-1926. Remarkable, finely detailed three-dimensional chrysanthemum motif.  Very good condition.  Dimensions:  19” x 3”.
Japanese Basket, Woven Bamboo Letter Box
Japanese Basket, Woven Bamboo Letter Box - JJ8MY510
Our Price: $395.00
Sale Price: $316.00

Wonderful Japanese letter box basket of woven bamboo, early 20th century.   A beautiful, subtle piece with lovely, rich patina.  Eye-catching open weave design. Very good condition.  Dimensions:  4” x 14” x 10”.
Pair Japanese Lacquer Sake Katakuchi
Pair Japanese Lacquer Sake or Water Katakuchi - JC8A91620
Our Price: $995.00

Breathtaking pair old Japanese lacquer sake or water pitchers or katakuchi, Taisho period, c. 1868-1912.  Large, dramatic form.  Rich and vivid red and black lacquer with gold décor on lid.  Tripod base.  Brass handle and knob. Very good condition.  Dimensions:  9” high, 8.5” diameter, 11” w/spout.
Japanese Lacquer Box with Tray
Japanese Lacquer Box with Tray - JC8A91621
Our Price: $395.00

Stunning Japanese lacquer box with tray, early to mid-20th century. Rich and brilliant red lacquer.  Glossy black interior and underside. An exceptional piece in very good condition. Dimensions:  2” high x 4.25” wide x 5” long (box), 8” x 6” (tray).
Japanese Carved Cherry Wood Box
Japanese Carved Cherry Wood Box - JC8A91623
Our Price: $395.00

Exquisitely rendered Japanese carved cherry wood box, Taisho Era, c. 1920..  Remarkable detail in vast landscape motif and soft, naturalistic wood shaping.  Wonderful dimension and depth.  Lovely, rich patina.  Very good condition. Dimensions:  2.5” high x 5.5” diameter.
Japanese Bronze Hibachi Handwarmer,  Brazier
Japanese Bronze Hibachi Handwarmer, Large Brazier - JC8A91601
Our Price: $1,295.00

Exceptional Japanese bronze hibachi or hand warmer, Meiji period (1868-1912). Traditionally used to burn coals and wood ash for indoor heating. Exceptional workmanship, highly detailed incised decor against textured ground.  Mythical beast handles. Very good condition. Dimensions:  15” high, 20” diameter.
Pair Chinese Rosewood Nesting Side Tables
Pair Chinese Rosewood Nesting Side Tables - JK8A927
Our Price: $795.00

Splendid pair Chinese handcarved rosewood Chow nesting side tables, early 20th century. Beautifully carved with extensive details. Rich patina.  A dazzling set in very good condition. Very good condition, with minor distress due to age and use.  Dimensions:  18” high, 14” wide, 10.5” deep; 13,5” high, 10.5” wide, 9” deep.
Japanese Lacquer Plate, Kamakura
Japanese Lacquer Plate, Kamakura Carved - JC8A907
Our Price: $495.00

Outstanding Japanese red Kamakura-carved Negoro lacquer plate, Taisho period (1912-1926). From the Kamakura area, well known for intricate wood-carving techniques. Exquisitely stylized motif of leafy twig with berries. An extraordinary piece in very good condition. Diameter:  11.5” x 14.5”.
Japanese Puzzle Box, 6-Step Himitsu Bako
Japanese Puzzle Box, 6-Step Himitsu Bako - JJ8A929
Our Price: $295.00
Sale Price: $236.00

Enchanting hexagonal 6-step puzzle box or himitsu bako from the Hakone region of Japan, contemporary.  Crafted from a variety of natural woods laid in elaborate geometric patterns.  This gorgeous, highly detailed technique originated in late Edo period.  A fine example!  (Individual design may vary slightly from photo.)  Very good condition.  Dimensions:
Japanese Puzzle Box, 27-Step Himitsu Bako
Japanese Puzzle Box, 27-Step Himitsu Bako - JJ8A932
Our Price: $395.00
Sale Price: $316.00

Challenging rectangular 27-step puzzle box or himitsu bako from the Hakone region of Japan, contemporary.  Crafted from a variety of natural woods laid in elaborate geometric patterns.  This gorgeous, highly detailed technique originated in late Edo period.  A fine example!  (Individual design may vary slightly from photo.)  Very good condition.  Dimensions:
Japanese Puzzle Box, 7-Step Himitsu Bako
Japanese Puzzle Box, 7-Step Himitsu Bako - JJ8A931
Our Price: $295.00
Sale Price: $236.00

Charming rectangular 7-step puzzle box or himitsu bako from the Hakone region of Japan, contemporary.  Crafted from a variety of natural woods laid in elaborate geometric patterns.  This gorgeous, highly detailed technique originated in late Edo period.  A fine example!  (Individual design may vary slightly from photo.)  Very good condition.  Dimensions:
Japanese Puzzle Box, 4-Step Himitsu Bako
Japanese Puzzle Box, 4-Step Himitsu Bako - JJ8A930
Our Price: $279.00
Sale Price: $223.20

Delightful rectangular 4-step puzzle box or himitsu bako from the Hakone region of Japan, contemporary.  Crafted from a variety of natural woods laid in elaborate geometric patterns.  This gorgeous, highly detailed technique originated in late Edo period.  A fine example!  (Individual design may vary slightly from photo.)  Very good condition.  Dimensions:
Japanese Handpainted Dancer’s Fan, Wisteria
Japanese Handpainted Dancer’s Fan, Wisteria - JJ8A705
Our Price: $395.00
Sale Price: $316.00

Excellent Japanese dancer’s fan, early 20th century.  Fine handpainting on paper.  Beautiful motif features lush pink wisteria against dazzling gold ground.  Artwork on both sides.  Polished bamboo frame.  Comes with original kiri wood storage box.  Very good condition.  Dimensions:  21” x 13”.
Japanese Handpainted Dancer’s Fan, Wave
Japanese Handpainted Dancer’s Fan, Wave - JJ8A706
Our Price: $395.00
Sale Price: $316.00

Stunning Japanese dancer’s fan, early 20th century.  Fine handpainting on paper.  Exceptional motif features wave crashing again rocks.  Artwork on both sides.  Polished bamboo frame.  Comes with original kiri wood storage box.  Very good condition.  Dimensions:  21” x 13”.
Pair Japanese Hibachi Brazier, Kiri Wood
Pair Japanese Hibachi Brazier, Kiri Wood - JJ8A709
Our Price: $495.00
Sale Price: $396.00

Extraordinary pair Japanese wooden hibachi or brazier with original copper liner, early 20th century.  Hand-carved, richly grained kiri wood. Rare and useful size as a planter or for use in ikebana (flower arrangement). A great mingei piece for the collector. Very good condition.  Dimensions:  8.5” x 10”. (May be sold individually.)
   
 
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