Small Worlds: The Collection of Aso O. Tavitian
Take a closer look at the miniature masterpieces that stand alongside works of monumental scale in our upcoming auction.
Aso O. Tavitian had a comprehensive and extraordinary eye for collecting—not just for the grand and monumental, but for the intricate and rare. His collection spans centuries of historical creativity, bringing together heavy, timeworn garden statuary and the smallest, most exquisite objects crafted by human hands.
From towering figures in carved stone to impossibly delicate masterpieces, this collection is a study in scale—monumental beauty standing alongside intimate perfection. Each tells a story. Each holds a small world within.
The collection coming up at STAIR on March 19-21, 2025 offers a unique glimpse into the history of the antiques trade and gives us insights into the depths of human creativity and the enduring curiosity of a remarkable collector. It also reminds us that even the smallest objects can hold immense beauty and significance.
Jean Bellekin, a notable 17th-century artist, was renowned for his intricate shell engravings, a unique form of artistry that captured the fascination of the time. Shells, particularly favored by the Dutch, were often collected for this purpose and subjected to a distinctive process: first, they were pickled in acid, a technique that brought out their natural luster and depth. Once the shell was prepared, Bellekin would delicately engrave designs on its surface, a process that required immense precision and skill. To further emphasize the fine details of the carvings, the shell would be carefully rubbed with a mixture of coal and wax, which served to enhance the contrast, giving the engravings a striking, vivid appearance. These etched shells were prized as both artistic and decorative treasures, reflecting the period’s appreciation for fine craftsmanship and natural beauty.
The Bellekin family, active in the Netherlands from the late 16th to the early 18th century, were renowned for their intricate nautilus shell carvings that combined relief work with finely engraved details. Jean Bellekin (active until 1636) pioneered this distinctive style, which was continued by Jan (1636–c. 1665) and later Cornelis, whose craftsmanship constitutes a significant portion of surviving examples.
The Equinoctial Compass Sundial is a remarkable fusion of navigation and timekeeping, designed for precision and portability. Featuring a planar surface that receives a shadow perpendicular to the gnomon’s style, this instrument ensures accurate solar time readings. Its built-in compass allows for proper alignment with true north, making it an essential tool for explorers and scholars from the 16th to 18th centuries. Often crafted from brass or silver and adorned with intricate engravings, these sundials exemplify the artistry and scientific ingenuity of their time.
Originating in 17th-century Japan, netsuke are intricately carved miniature sculptures that evolved from simple button fasteners used to secure inrō boxes. Over time, these small yet exquisite objects became a showcase of masterful craftsmanship, depicting animals, mythological figures, and everyday life in astonishing detail. Often made from ivory, wood, or bone, netsuke were both functional and artistic, reflecting the cultural and artistic heritage of Japan.
Chinese reverse glass paintings showcase a unique artistic technique mastered by skilled calligraphers. Created for export markets, these artworks were meticulously painted on the back of glass plates, with layers applied in reverse order to achieve a striking, luminous effect. This delicate process required precision, as mistakes could not be corrected once a layer was added. Popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, these paintings often depicted Chinese landscapes, figures, and Western-inspired scenes.
Preview the upcoming sale, The Collection of Aso O. Tavitian | New York & Stockbridge on March 19-21, 2025. Part I, Part II and Part III.
CATALOGUE ONLINE:
Friday, March 7, 2025
GALLERY PREVIEW
Friday, March 7: 9am – 5pm
Saturday, March 8: 11am – 5pm
Sunday, March 9: Closed
Monday, March 10: 9am – 5pm
Tuesday, March 11: 9am – 5pm
Wednesday, March 12: 9am – 5pm
Thursday, March 13: 9am – 5pm
Friday, March 14: 9am – 5pm
Saturday, March 15: 11am – 5pm
Sunday, March 16: Closed
Monday, March 17: 9am – 5pm
Tuesday, March 18: 9am – 5pm
The collection of garden statuary is on preview at a location a few minutes away from our Warren Street gallery. Please reach out to schedule an appointment to see the collection.