The stock of Japanese Works of Art for sale changes regularly as we continually search and buy an assortment of antique Japanese works of art. Here are some of our latest additions to our stock of Japanese art. Please contact the gallery to view more of our Japanese works of art for sale.

Latest Update: Jul 26, 2019 @ 2:00 pm

Lacquer tonkotsu

Lacquer tonkotsu

Ivory okimono of a small apple

Silver ojime

Lacquer kogo in the form of Ebisu

Ivory okimono of a nectarine

Large ivory manju of Kintoki with the carp

Hoshin Plaque inlaid with carved fruit

Hoshin Plaque inlaid with carved fruit

Collotype of camellia

Ryukyuan lacquer vessel adopted as a cha-ire

Two studies of Australasian birds

A life size ivory okimono of a roasted chestnut

Small stag antler okimono of a Rakan

Kyogen mask of Oto

A woven bajo-jingasa

A woven bajo-jingasa

Stamped leather pouch with gold kanamono

Ivory okimono of an orange

Ivory okimono of a carrot

Ivory okimono of a carrot

Fine lacquer kogo in early 18th century style

Stag antler brush rest in the form of a lotus stem

Small lacquer jubako

Fruitwood tonkotsu in the form of a bat

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Max Rutherston Ltd

5.0

Jane Smith

06:26 16 Aug 19

I'm very new (naive!) to netsuke and it's completely nerve-wracking to commit to a purchase which could be end up being an expensive learning experience. Many thanks to you Max, for making me feel so much at ease and for never pressuring me. And for taking the time to show so many wonderful netsuke - many well out of my price range - but such a privilege to handle and appreciate them. I am so happy with my two beautiful pieces that are now the prizes of my little collection. Hope to see you again when I'm next in London - cheers from Liz (from Australia).read more

Gregory Carter

06:24 23 Jul 19

I’ve been at this collecting journey for near 60 years and 35 of those in the pursuit and appreciation of Japanese art. Whilst netsuke might be considered a second tier focus for me, Max has heightened my appreciation and slowly my knowledge in this most loved field of the miniature arts. There are few whose integrity would match that of Max Rutherston Ltd and none who would surpass it. Clients of all means, backgrounds and knowledge can look forward to equal care and consideration.read more

Alan Harnik

19:14 25 Jan 19

I have bought several netsukes over the years from Max and each time walk away with a better understanding of not only the piece or pieces that I have purchased but more about netsukes and japanese art as well. Having come from an academic background I really do appreciate the knowledge Max has about the Japanese art that he sells/ and a much better understanding his aesthetic which compliments my own interest. His candor about pricing and value stands out. In todays universe I guess the word would be transparencyread more

Lisa Stillings

20:24 17 Jan 19

I’ve purchased netsuke from Max Rutherston and enjoy working with him. While I’m impressed by the variety and quality of the pieces he offers, I most appreciate the background information he provides. For example, from speaking with Max and reading his work I’ve learned stories of priestly tanukis; the white fox, Kuzunoha; and the sennin, Chinnan. Finally (and importantly) Max understands that my budget is not unlimited and kindly works within my limits. I look forward to his newsletters and to another visit at his gallery!read more

Cecilie Nilsen

09:37 11 Jan 19

In November 2018 I had the pleasure of spending a few hours in Max Rutherston's gallery. It simply is a treasure trove if you are into Japanese netsuke, inro and lacquer ware. The gallery is rather small but not in any way cluttered. Every item stands out and draws you in. Mr. Rutherston's vast knowledge in the field coupled with funny anecdotes, made it difficult to tear myself away! The gallery is definitely worth a visit.read more

Chip Lutton

06:35 11 Jan 19

Max Rutherston is an extraordinary Asian art dealer. He's dedicated decades to becoming one of the world's top Japanese art experts, but no transaction or relationship is too small for his full attention. Max is generous with his time and expertise, and tireless in his pursuit of top treasures around the world. He has an encyclopedic knowledge of Japanese netsuke and inro and their history of collection. For me, one sign of a great art dealer is complete transparency -- in pricing and the merits of a piece. I have been impressed with Max's willingness to share fully his views of any piece and to give each collector a fair chance to feel like they were lucky to close a deal, too. Whether you are buying, selling, or just learning, Max Rutherston Ltd. is a must-have relationship.read more

John MacDonald

16:55 10 May 11

I met Mr. Rutherston at his offices in Bury Street and was pleasantly surprised by his depth of knowledge of not just Netsuke but Asian art as a whole. I must admit I spent rather longer than anticipated at his showroom, but came away with a far greater appreciation of Netsuke than before, as well as a really great bargain. This will definitely be my one stop shop in London for any future Netsuke investments.read more

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Japanese Works of Art For Sale

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