Property from the Collection of the Mitsui Family

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Clars Auctions is delighted to present a collection of Japanese and Western art from the esteemed Mitsui (Koishikawa) family, a prominent business dynasty with roots dating back to the Edo period, in our October 18th Auction.


The Mitsui family’s legacy began in 1673 as a kimono shop and evolved into the influential Mitsui Group, a zaibatsu (conglomerate) that has played a pivotal role in Japan’s economic development from the Edo period to present day.


A Japanese Kaiawase set with (3) Kaioke (laquer storage boxes), Meiji period, Kaiwase with 493 painted shells, Makie lacquer, gold and parcel gilt kaioke with floral design and mistudomoe, 6.5 x 6.5 x 7.5. Custom ordered for the early 20th century marriage between Princess Hiroko of the Shimazu Clan and Mr. Takanaga Mitsui of the Mitsui Koishikawa clan.
A Japanese Kaiawase (traditional Heian-period shell-matching game) set with (3) Kaioke (laquer storage boxes), Meiji period, Kaiwase with 493 painted shells, Makie lacquer, gold and parcel gilt kaioke with floral design and mistudomoe. Custom ordered for the early 20th century marriage between Princess Hiroko of the Shimazu Clan and Mr. Takanaga Mitsui of the Mitsui Koishikawa clan.
Estimate: $5,000–$7,000
Two massive Hirobuta trays with the Mitsui Koishikawa clan's family crest.
Two massive Hirobuta trays with the Mitsui Koishikawa clan’s family crest. Custom ordered for the early 20th century marriage between Princess Hiroko of the Shimazu Clan and Mr. Takanaga Mitsui of the Mitsui Koishikawa clan.
Estimate: $1,000–$1,500 (each)
An impressive Japanese Satsuma dinnerware set, custom ordered for the early 20th century marriage between Princess Hiroko of the Shimazu Clan and Mr. Takanaga Mitsui of the Mitsui Koishikawa clan.
An impressive Japanese Satsuma dinnerware set, custom ordered for the early 20th century marriage between Princess Hiroko of the Shimazu Clan and Mr. Takanaga Mitsui of the Mitsui Koishikawa clan.
Estimate: $2,000–$3,000

Their impact on commerce and culture is well-documented, notably in the book Mitsui: Three Centuries of Japanese Business. A remarkable 1930 article in Fortune magazine noted, “There is no business enterprise anywhere which is at once so diverse as the house of Mitsui in Japan.” This diversity is beautifully reflected in the collection we are proud to offer.


An Émile Antoine Bourdelle (1861–1929) patinated bronze ‘tête de Meduse’ (head of Medusa) door knocker, circa 1925.Estimate: $6,000–$8,000
An Émile Antoine Bourdelle (1861–1929) patinated bronze ‘tête de Meduse’ (head of Medusa) door knocker, circa 1925.
Estimate: $6,000–$8,000

Spanning the 20th century, the collection showcases a blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary innovation, allowing art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the rich narrative of Japanese culture. Among its highlights are exquisite gifts exchanged during the marriage of Princess Hiroko (1897–1983), of the Shimazu Clan, and Mr. Takanaga Mitsui (1892– 1962), of the Mitsui Koishikawa clan, symbolizing the family’s appreciation for art and culture.


Morino Taimei (Japanese, b. 1934), Glazed Ceramic Cube. Provenance: Property of Mr. Takanobu Mitsui (1920–1965), patron of the artist, and descended through the family.
Morino Taimei (Japanese, b. 1934), Glazed Ceramic Cube.
Estimate: $2,000–$4,000

Morino Taimei (Japanese, b. 1934), Glazed Stoneware Cube.
Morino Taimei (Japanese, b. 1934), Glazed Stoneware Cube.
Estimate: $2,000–$4,000
Morino Taimei (Japanese, b. 1934), Black Glazed Stoneware Cube.
Morino Taimei (Japanese, b. 1934), Black Glazed Stoneware Cube.
Estimate: $2,000–$4,000

The collection features a diverse range of early 20th-century Western decorative arts, including Tiffany Studios glass and a bronze sculpture acquired directly from the renowned artist, Antoine Bourdelle, in Paris, reflecting the Mitsui family’s global perspective to fine art. Additionally, the collection proudly highlights works by contemporary Japanese artists Morino Taimei and Kyohei Fujita, showcasing their mastery of ceramics and glass.


A large Kyohei Fujita glass free form vase.
A large Kyohei Fujita glass free form vase.
Estimate: $2,500–$3,500

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