these unique carvings are from a Churulan Vallam, a traditional narrow boat used in the famous snake boat races of Kerala, South India and powered by approximately 45 people; the prow is carved as a "churul" meaning a ring out of local aini wood and adorned with incised carvings and applied metal embellishments; some missing metal elements with overall wear and abrasions; age cracks
this large ribbed and cylindrical Japanese shell-game box with domed lid decorated overall with Maki-e (gold lacquered) foliate wreaths and stylized flower heads and incised brass mounts; raised on four splayed supports; good overall antique condition with even wear and rubbing to surface; some touch-ups to areas of missing lacquer; minor crack to underside of lid and inside bottom; now lacking rope.
the striking ovoid vessel with fish-mouth opening; painted overall with large leaves and bamboo shoots all on a white ground; with underglaze blue markings to underside; The first porcelain factory in the town of Marktredwitz opened in 1872 and was known under the name of Porzellanfabrik Jaeger, Thomas & Co. until Fritz Thomas quit in 1898, opening his own factory in 1903. In 1908, the “F. Thomas, Marktredwitz” factory was purchased by Rosenthal, ceasing operation in 1960.
incised signature to underside "Dave & Boni Deal 88"; of tall ovoid shape decorated overall with impressed leaves on a metallic, rainbow effect raku glaze; the western version of raku was developed in the 20th century by studio potters. typically fired at high temperatures, the wares are placed in an open-air container filled with combustible material, unlike the traditional Japanese method. the western process can give a great variety and depth of colors and surface effects as seen with this vase; good vintage condition with no chips or cracks
Excellent vintage condition with no chips or cracks; KöniglichePorzellanManufaktur, or KPM (established 1723) was a fundamental part of the landscape of the European decorative arts in the 19th Century, and was, and still is, one of the most prolific producers of luxury porcelain
signed on bottom 'Giovanni Mollica'; in 1842, Giovanni founded his ceramic workshop in Naples, Italy. His sons Ciro, Achille and Alexander took over the family business, continuing it until the end of the 19th century; excellent condition with only minor overall wear to surface; a truly spectacular piece
the canted corner square opening tapering to scrolled wooden feet; flanked by two brass handles; overall with inlaid stringing and diamond motif; restored condition