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Chris Wells
"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
Frances Gould Verified customer
"Mr Rutherston piloted the sale of my valuable artefact with skill and sensitivity. He was personable, and perfectly professional. Highly recommend."
4 years ago
David Meredith Verified customer
"From the initial contact to delivery, this was an excellent experience. The website is clear and intuitive and, even though I wasn't in my area of expertise, I felt very comfortable and confident dealing with Max. Thank you."
5 years ago
Colin Teves Verified customer
"I have a lot of experience in the auction of Asian art objects. Max Rutherston's professionalism, speed, and fairness in selling a libation cup on my behalf have far surpassed that of his competitors. And I thank him for that."
5 years ago
Georgia Watts Verified customer
"Conducting business with Max has been an extremely interesting and informative experience to date. He is incredibly fair, efficient and professional and I would not hesitate to recommend him. I look forward to dealing with him again soon."
5 years ago
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
"Max Rutherstone was the third netsuke dealer I have met in my life and the first one from across the pond. He has immediately impressed me not only with his knowledge, past rich experience (including working with the most prominent auction and dealer houses in the World), but also with his deep knowledge of Japanese history and culture and… by speaking Japan..." Read more
4 years ago