Japanese & Korean Works of Art

The May 2025 Japanese & Korean Works of Art sale will feature a variety of artworks, from prints to metalworks, ceramics, and arms and armours.

Of particular interest is a selection of artwork from the collection of William Cleverley Alexander (1840-1916), the Asian Art collector and patron of James Abbott McNeill Whistler. It notably includes a jizai okimono (articulated model) of a prawn signed Myochin, offered with a copy of the 1897 invoice from John Spark’s dealership when it was still named ‘The Japanese Fine Art Depot’; a rare kinchaku (pouch) shaped as a menpō (face mask) with a helmet netsuke; inros and various other pieces, many with copies of the original invoices. Estimates for these lots range from £600-3,000.

There will be a good offering of lacquerware, including a rare and extensive set of miniatures for the Hina Matsuri (Girls' Day) Festival from Heath House, Hampshire. 

The metalware section of the sale will include good okimono and a set of three large vases by the Miyao Company, and a variety of sword furniture including a large collection of tsuba to be offered without reserve.

The sale will also feature a good selection of Korean items, including 18th century maps from the Ch'onha chido (Korean Atlas of the World), ceramics and other artworks. 

We are now accepting consignments for our Autumn sale. Please contact the department by email at aa@woolleys.live or by calling 01722424583 for additional information.