Embracing Shadows; Arts of Asia
If light is scarce then light is scarce; we will immerse ourselves in the darkness and there discover its own particular beauty.
Jun'ichirō Tanizaki, In Praise of Shadows, 1933
The inaugural auction of the Arts of Asia department, entitled ‘Embracing Shadows’ inspired by the famous Japanese author’s essay on aesthetics comprises over 130 lots of paintings, prints, ceramics, lacquer, jewellery and bronze from Japan, China, Korea, Vietnam, Burma and Tibet spanning over a timeline from the late neolithic period to modern day.
Among the sale highlights are Chinese Imperial famille rose ‘Bitter Melon’ bowl bearing a six character Daoguang mark and of the period and an 18th century handscroll depicting foreign emissaries presenting horses at the court. It also features a Japanese gilt wood figure of Dainichi Nyorai from Azuchi Momoyama period and a group of 20th century Japanese prints including a private collection of works by Toshi and Hodaka Yoshida and other artists.
For any specific queries regarding East Asian art, specifically Japanese material, reach out to Marta Somauroo at marta@azcaauction.com. For anything relating to Southeast Asian art, please contact the Head of Department, Beatrice Campi, at beatrice@azcaauction.com.
All lots are subject to Buyer's Premium of 23% + VAT
