Curating History: Fine Antiques & Unique Vintage Finds
Carefully selected pieces, sourced from across the UK, with clear descriptions and detailed condition reports.
All prices include shipping to UK mainland
Independent UK dealer
Independent UK dealer
An authentic Japanese Meiji period brass vase, made when Japan produced high-quality decorative metalwork for both domestic use and the Western export market. The vase is of square baluster form, rising from a square foot through a waisted body to a flared neck. Each face is decorated with floral panels, likely incorporating peony and chrysanthemum motifs, traditionally associated with wealth, longevity and renewal. These are interspersed with symbolic elements, executed with confident rather than shallow surface decoration.
The sides feature raised decorative bosses, a recognised design feature on late 19th-century Japanese brass and bronze wares intended for export. The overall form is well-proportioned and deliberately architectural, reflecting the influence of Chinese antiquity forms reinterpreted through Japanese craftsmanship.
The base bears a stylised seal-script mark, typical of Meiji-period Japanese export metalwork. Such marks were decorative rather than identifying, designed to evoke earlier seal inscriptions rather than denote a specific maker. The soft wear, oxidation within the recesses, and surrounding patina are all consistent with genuine age.
The brass retains a rich, untouched patina, showing natural surface wear and colour variation developed over time. It has not been aggressively cleaned or polished, which significantly enhances its authenticity and appeal to collectors.
This is a genuine late 19th-century Japanese decorative object, suitable for collectors of Asian art, Meiji metalwork or period interiors.
Height 21 cm
Overall width including bosses 10 cm
Base width 6 cm
Meiji Period circa 1885 - 1905.
Stock Reference Number: AC02073
A beautifully detailed antique Chinese lacquered glove box with a hinged lid, finely crafted and full of character and charm. It would also make a wonderful artist’s brush case or a treasured keepsake container for special mementos. The ornate black and gilded design features elegant birds set in a tranquil countryside scene, richly decorated with traditional motifs and delicate gilt accents. Please note there is no key.
Circa early 20th century.
An attractive Mid-Century Chinese export lacquered tray. Expertly crafted from wood and finished with a decorative chinoiserie design, it features an elegant bird in flight set among stylised flowers and delicate foliage. This charming piece marries authentic vintage character with refined decorative appeal, making it ideal for tasteful display, occasional serving or gentle everyday use.
Height 3 cm
Width 35 cm
Depth 35 cm
Circa mid 20th century.
This exquisite Chinese three-panel lacquered folding screen is a valuable addition to any serious collection of ethnographic collectibles. Each panel is hand-painted on finely crafted black lacquered wooden panels, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship that has characterised this ancient country for centuries. The intricate details and vibrant colours embodied in this piece create a stunning display of traditional Chinese art, complemented by calligraphy stamps adorning the central front panel. The screens themselves depict three Chinese women elegantly attired in full traditional gowns, along with a seated man, elegantly posed to enhance the overall sentiment of grace and culture. Whether you are a dedicated collector of Chinese art or simply a person who appreciates the beauty of traditional artisan craftsmanship, this folded screen is an absolute must-have for your dressing table or as a distinguished element of your home décor.
Fully open dimensions.
Height 30 cm
Width 41 cm
Depth 1.5 cm
Circa mid 20th century.
A pair of Japanese lacquered musical jewellery boxes, beautifully crafted to reflect the exquisite artistry of traditional Japanese design. Each box boasts intricate lacquer work, showcasing elegant motifs and rich colour palettes that are characteristic of high-quality Japanese craftsmanship. The exterior is adorned with delicate patterns, inspired by nature, while the interior reveals a stunning contrast with plush velvet lining, ensuring your cherished pieces are housed with the utmost care.
Both boxes are equipped with a wind-up mechanism that plays a soothing melody, adding an enchanting touch to their functionality. These jewellery boxes not only serve as storage solutions but also as striking decorative pieces that echo the rich cultural heritage of Japan. Ideal for collectors or as a unique gift for a loved one, this pair exemplifies the elegance and sophistication of vintage Japanese antiques.
Height 10.5 cm & 10 cm
Width 18 cm & 15 cm
Depth 13cm & 10 cm
Circa mid 20th century.
An early 20th century Japanese parquetry inlaid jewellery cabinet. This finely crafted piece is a testament to the artistry and precision of traditional Japanese woodworking. The cabinet features an intricate parquetry inlay, showcasing a beautiful mosaic of geometric patterns that highlight the skill and craftsmanship of the period. The cabinet is thoughtfully designed with an arrangement of six drawers in total including a slide panel which cleverly reveals two hidden drawers.
This multifunctional piece serves both as a practical desk organiser and a stunning jewellery box, embodying the elegance and sophistication of early 20th century Japanese design. Ideal for collectors of fine Asian antiques or as a statement piece in a modern home, this cabinet offers a blend of beauty and utility. Its compact size makes it perfect for use on a desk or table top, where it can store small items while adding a touch of historical charm to your space.
Height 19 cm
Width 21 cm
Depth 10 cm
Circa 1900 - 1925.
A highly decorative vintage wooden-cased Chinese jewellery box, exuding Oriental charm and fine craftsmanship. Hand-crafted brass embellishments complement a polished black lacquered finish, while an ornate inlaid mother-of-pearl design depicts traditional birds and floral motifs. Inside are two red silk-lined removable drawers, each finished with a decorative gold-printed pattern. A folding brass carry handle on top completes the piece, making it both attractive and practical.
Height 12 cm
Width 18 cm
Depth 10 cm
Circa mid 20th century.
Learn more in our journal article: Revealing the Mid Century Modern Design Movement→
This unique and captivating set includes a beautifully detailed female figure, elegantly holding a delicate parasol that exudes grace and charm, along with an elderly man who is thoughtfully carrying a traditional scroll. These exquisite and intricate pieces offer a remarkable touch of history and artistry, making them perfect for framing individually or displaying together as a lovely pair that would enhance any collection.
Height 27 cm
Width 9 cm
Circa early 20th century.
This enchanting and delightfully distressed antique pair of Chinese silk clothed paper dolls includes a beautifully crafted female figure elegantly holding a scroll or a similar item, alongside a warrior adorned with a sword securely strapped to his back. These exquisite pieces are perfect for framing individually to highlight their distinct features or showcasing them together as a striking pair.
Height 27 cm
Width 9 cm
Circa early 20th century.
For sale, a vintage brass willow pattern footed fruit bowl or table centre piece. Stands on three scroll feet. Etching describes a highly decorative and detailed chinese coastal or river scene featuring pagodas and a sailing boat.
Height 13 cm
Rim diameter 21.5 cm
Circa mid 20th century.
Discover the elegance of Japanese craftsmanship with this large antique polished bronze jardiniere, planter or hibachi heating vessel. Featuring intricate decorative landscape panels, this stunning piece is a true testament to traditional Japanese design. Originally used as a hibachi, a classic fire bowl, this vessel was crafted to hold burning charcoal, radiating warmth in a beautifully understated way. While primarily used for heating, it also served as a centrepiece for boiling tea or later, light cooking. Perfect for collectors or those who appreciate unique, functional art, this versatile piece will add a touch of historical charm to any space.
Height 25.5 cm
Overall width including handles 37 cm
Exterior diameter 29 cm
Internal diameter 25 cm
Circa 19th century.
For sale, an antique Japanese Meiji period embossed antimony dragon design dish or tray. Antimony is an alloy, which easily takes impressions, has a smooth surface and does not shrink during cooling after casting. When coated with gold, silver, or copper, pieces look incredibly luxurious. This antimony dish has been lacquered to resemble bronze. Features an attractive landscape scene of pagodas overlooking a river valley with boats. The Meiji period is an era of Japanese history that extended from October 23, 1868 to July 30, 1912 when Japan transitioned from a feudal society to an industrialised nation.
Width 21 cm
Depth 16 cm
Circa early 20th century.
For sale is an ornate antique Oriental dragon box, meticulously hand-carved with intricate detail. This exquisite antique carved box features deeply carved dragon motifs on the lid and all four sides, with a faux bamboo design elegantly carved around the edge of the hinged lid. The wooden box includes two removable compartments, offering both beauty and functionality. The Chinese dragon, known as Loong or Long (龙), is a revered symbol in Chinese mythology, representing strength, good luck, and power—qualities believed to be embodied by the dragon carvings on this box. Unlike the fearsome dragons of Western lore, the Chinese dragon is seen as a benevolent and powerful guardian. This wooden dragon box has an attractive antique patina, adding to its charm and authenticity. The lid closes securely and fits perfectly, ensuring that this piece is not only decorative but also practical. Perfect for collectors of Oriental antiques or anyone looking to add a touch of cultural elegance to their space, this dragon box is a true work of art.
Height 7 cm
Width 21 cm
Depth 13 cm
Circa early 20th century.
For sale, a highly decorative and ornamental hand carved hardwood horse in the Chinese Tang Dynasty manner. The Tang dynasty or Tang Empire, was an imperial dynasty of China that ruled from 618 to 907 AD, with an interregnum between 690 and 705. Stunning chestnut brown patina to the wood. Freestanding, mounted on complementary wooden plinth.
Height 26 cm
Length 20 cm
Width 10 cm
Circa 20th century.
For sale, a decorative vintage hand carved hardwood horse sculpture in the Tang Dynasty manner. The Tang dynasty or Tang Empire, was an imperial dynasty of China that ruled from 618 to 907 AD, with an interregnum between 690 and 705. Stunning golden patina to the wood. Mounted on wooden plinth with original protective green felt base.
Height 26 cm
Length 20 cm
Width 10 cm
Circa 20th century.
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