Cynthia Shaver
Background
Contributing columnist Cynthia Shaver has been an appraiser of Asian art for more than 30 years.
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Ark journalists avoid conflicts of interest, refuse gifts, favors, free travel and special treatment, and correct information throughout the life of a story. Read The Ark’s ethics policy and corrections policy.
Latest from Cynthia
Selecting works for ‘Wabi-Sabi’ exhibit was fun break from routine
Appraiser Cynthia Shaver juries O’Hanlon Center’s “Wabi-Sabi” exhibit in Mill Valley, celebrating beauty in imperfection with 60 selected works.
By CYNTHIA SHAVER ·
Playful skeleton imagery marks unique period in Japanese garment design
Most of the kimono designs featuring skulls seem to be a nod to the literary world. The skeletons, on the other hand, are humorous and playful, like those seen in the sketches of Japanese painter and caricaturist.
By CYNTHIA SHAVER ·
Virtual appointments prove useful amid coronavirus threat
I recently had my first office appointment over FaceTime. My client suggested it, and I thought, “What a great idea.” I had questions as to how effective using the technology would be for an appraisal. Would the colors of the dye or the woven cloth be as clear? What about the clarity and precision of the ink in a black-and-white painting? Will the material, without holding the ceramic property, have weight? As an appraiser, I have to determine the quality characteristics and value elements of...
By CYNTHIA SHAVER ·A variety of thoughts to start the new year
My husband and I recently spent an afternoon in San Francisco’s Japantown. I had not explored the low white buildings of Japan Center in a few years, and I found the main business I had come to explore, Asakichi, had moved from one building to another. This meant I passed by many of the retail shops and restaurants from one end to the other. For the full story, pick up this week's edition of The Ark newspaper on newsstands or SUBSCRIBE NOW!
By CYNTHIA SHAVER ·Intricate ikebana containers a first for this appraiser
I recently examined, researched, photographed and appraised a group of 17 Japanese bronze containers, crafted during the Meiji period for ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arrangement. I had never seen these variations before, and this is exactly why I love my work; there is always something new to discover. Read the complete story in this week's Ark. SUBSCRIBE NOW!
By CYNTHIA SHAVER ·
