Japanese and Korean Works of Art

The word hana in Japanese means flowers. Hana Matsumi is the flower festival observed to celebrate Buddha’s birthday in countries such as Japan and Korea. The celebration falls during springtime when flowers like cherry blossoms are in bloom. Many people take time off of work to relax and enjoy the fleeting beauty. Eight volumes of the book Hana-No-Matsuri are offered in the upcoming Japanese and Korean Works of Art auction, presented by Hindman. The collection, sewn in gold silk pictorial binding, is from the private collection of Baron Morimasa Takei (1842-1926) and contains 1,000 black and white plates with 7,500 subjects. According to the auction house, the complete set is a rare find.

Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, is worshipped as a deity who helps people in distress. Her iconic mystery smile is also a reason behind her popularity. A giltwood figure of Kannon is available in the auction. She is shown seated on a lotus base, dressed in voluminous robes and jewelry backed by a mandala. Also offered in the sale are Japanese netsuke carved miniature sculptures made of ivory or wood. Netsuke were practical items designed to fasten objects from a kimono when pockets were lacking. The sale also offers a selection of tsuba, the handguard of a Japanese sword, with animal and leafy vine decorations. Visit Bidsquare to view all the lots and bid online.