Asian Art
The popularity of Asian Art cannot be overstated.
Asian art is becoming more and more valuable each day. It’s limited availability combined with collectors willing to over pay has launched the industry into a place where it’s becoming very difficult to find reasonable opportunities.
The most sought after pieces are in the hands of world wide collectors and museums, and it’s always news worthy when important pieces change ownership. For people who just appreciate the art, it’s a game that’s harder and harder play.
Even Asian art for the everyday consumer has become very hard to come by. Sure you can find some cement statues for your garden or atrium, but trying to find a Tang horse that isn’t mass produced has now proven to be a herculean task.
Searching for Asian art for your home through LA, and the design centers in LA and Laguna Niguel is a good start and worth the two hour drive (or make a weekend trip). My recommendation is to ask everyone you come in contact with if they have any tips or contact. This worked for us once on a trip for just so. We ended up being referred to a giant wholesale decorator warehouse full of Asian Art. All reproductions of course, but the quality was good and a great option if you are just seeking a serene decorative vibe.
Asian pottery is one of the most enjoyable things to collect and display. From the Tang dynasty to newer pieces from Vietnam, there is something for everyone. The Gift show in Los Angeles once a year used to be a good source for Asian Art, but in recent years only 2 or 3 vendors still attend.
Art galleries can be a good source. Leave your info with gallery owners in hopes of them remembering you if/when they come across something.
High end estate sales in Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells, Newport Beach, Corona Del Mar, Beverly Hills, and Los Angles areas are an excellent source for Asian art too. Again, make friends with the people who are exposed to art and art collectors, and keep in touch. Jalan Imports in Topanga Canyon has a nice selection of Asian pieces for garden but for the fine collector grade pieces, it’s gonna take some leg work.
