Australians are becoming known for our distinctive eclectic style. An important element in this style is our proximity to Asia enabling a bold mix of East and West. From fusion cuisine to our homes and lifestyle we can incorporate Asian accents to add a certain character and flavour.
Chosun Gallery of Pymble, which specialises in Korean, Japanese and Chinese furniture, also has a varied collection of arts and crafts from East and Southeast Asia. Rare and antique pieces stand alongside contemporary pieces and reproductions made in traditional styles.
Japanese
In keeping with the Shinto reverence for nature and the Buddhist ethic of simplicity, Japanese chests (tansu) combine aesthetic simplicity and functionality. Kimono and samurai tansu can replace the standard chest of drawers in bedrooms, while choba (merchant) and mizuya (water) tansu can be used for all-purpose cupboards. Kaidan (step) tansu make dramatic room dividers and Japanese doors serve as unusual coffee tables. Traditional kimono sashes (obi) give striking effects when draped over cupboards, tables or chests.
Chinese
Chinese furniture pieces are large and sturdy, conveying a sense of imposing dignity. Cabinets are constructed from strong flat pieces of timber. Lock plates are plain rectangles or circles. Chinese altar cabinets make superb buffets, while altar tables can be used as sofa tables or in an entrance or hallway.
Korean
In contrast Korea, with its strong shamanist roots, meant that each piece of furniture was ritually constructed with the shape of the chest, its base, and the design of its brass or wrought iron fittings symbolising the status, hopes and expectations of its owner. Richly figured woods were cut to highlight the natural grain and matched for the decorative front panelling. Korean chests were typically elevated, the gracefully curved apron at the base being a stylised representation of a crane in flight, a traditional symbol of long life. Chosun has reproduction Korean display cabinets, hat boxes, "secret drawer" chests, medicine and side chests, which can be used as bedside or lamp tables as well as elegant antique morijang (headside chest) and bandaji (blanket chests).
Anyone intrigued by the fine arts and crafts of the Orient is well advised to take the time to pay a visit to Chosun Gallery.
OPEN 6 DAYS 9-30am to 5-00pm
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