8 reviews
5/5 average rating
Chris Wells
Jane Smith
"I'm very new (naive!) to netsuke and it's completely nerve-wracking to commit to a purchase which could be end up being an expensive learning experience. Many thanks to you Max, for making me feel so much at ease and for never pressuring me. And for taking the time to show so many wonderful netsuke - many well out of my price range - but such a privilege to..." Read more
5 years ago
Google review
Gregory Carter
"I’ve been at this collecting journey for near 60 years and 35 of those in the pursuit and appreciation of Japanese art. Whilst netsuke might be considered a second tier focus for me, Max has heightened my appreciation and slowly my knowledge in this most loved field of the miniature arts. There are few whose integrity would match that of Max Rutherston Ltd..." Read more
5 years ago
Google review
Alan Harnik
"I have bought several netsukes over the years from Max and each time walk away with a better understanding of not only the piece or pieces that I have purchased but more about netsukes and japanese art as well. Having come from an academic background I really do appreciate the knowledge Max has about the Japanese art that he sells/ and a much better underst..." Read more
6 years ago
Google review
Lisa Stillings
"I’ve purchased netsuke from Max Rutherston and enjoy working with him. While I’m impressed by the variety and quality of the pieces he offers, I most appreciate the background information he provides. For example, from speaking with Max and reading his work I’ve learned stories of priestly tanukis; the white fox, Kuzunoha; and the sennin, Chinnan. Finally..." Read more
6 years ago
Google review
Cecilie Nilsen
"In November 2018 I had the pleasure of spending a few hours in Max Rutherston's gallery. It simply is a treasure trove if you are into Japanese netsuke, inro and lacquer ware. The gallery is rather small but not in any way cluttered. Every item stands out and draws you in. Mr. Rutherston's vast knowledge in the field coupled with funny anecdotes, made it dif..." Read more
6 years ago
Google review
Chip Lutton
"Max Rutherston is an extraordinary Asian art dealer. He's dedicated decades to becoming one of the world's top Japanese art experts, but no transaction or relationship is too small for his full attention. Max is generous with his time and expertise, and tireless in his pursuit of top treasures around the world. He has an encyclopedic knowledge of Japanese ne..." Read more
6 years ago
Google review
Matthew Holder
"A fantastic dealer with great knowledge & bundles of experience."
9 years ago
Google review
"First-rate service to total strangers from a dealer who really knows his field. We found a little collection of my grandfather's - inro, opium pipes, netsuke - and despite none of it being special or much use to him, Max has been full of help: whether and how it could be sold, the stories behind the little figures. Thanks and good hunting, Max."
4 years ago
Google review