Asian Decorative Arts – Online-Only Auction

In 1951, the São Paulo Art Biennial awarded prizes to Hanga artists rather than the usual master painters and sculptors. The two artists selected were Tetsuro Komai for his etchings and Kiyoshi Saito for his woodblock prints. Sosaku Hanga artists were generally disregarded in the Japanese art world, for their art was considered compromised for American tastes. A self-taught artist, Saito has also been credited with the development of several innovative printing techniques. The upcoming auction, presented by Ahlers & Ogletree, presents a woodblock print titled Blue Marsh, Urabandai Aizu by Kiyoshi Saito. This grain patterned print depicts two-dimensional, flattened plant life. Saito created the applied technique to print at a faster rate.

Also showcased is a variety of Chinese porcelain items, including Kangxi and Qing dynasty porcelain. Among them, a Chien Lung polychrome enameled porcelain bowl is a highlight. Also available are several Chinese carpets. In 1860, Ho Chi-ching, a Buddhist priest, established a weaving school for the poor in Paoku. After its success, the school split into Eastern gate and Western gate schools. The auction features a hand-knotted Tientsin wool rug from the Western gate school. This blue wool pile rug is decorated with floral vines and has a Greek key border. Also offered are paintings, bronze ware, Jade sculptures, furniture, and jewelry. Interested collectors can explore the full listings and register to bid online on Invaluable.