Laura Bordignon has been specialising in Japanese works of art since 1997, with a particular focus on metalwork and okimono carvings from the Meiji (1868-1912) and Taishō (1912-1926) eras. Over the past two decades, she has developed a high level of connoisseurship in these areas and is widely regarded for her specialist knowledge. As a result, she regularly advises an international clientele of collectors, helping to refine established collections or guide the acquisition of new ones.
In 2000, she was elected as a member of the British Antiques Dealers’ Association (BADA), the UK's foremost trade body for the fine art, design, and antiques community, established in 1918. BADA membership is reserved for dealers who demonstrate exceptional expertise, integrity, and business ethics.
She has played an active role within the association, serving as a Council member of BADA for sixteen years (2007–2023) and held the position of Treasurer from 2009 to 2011. Additionally, she acted as Regional Representative for Eastern England from 2007 to 2012 and was Chairman of the BADA Fair for two years (2012–2014). Her standing in the field is further recognised through her regular participation on vetting committees at major UK antique fairs.
Laura exhibits at the prestigious Treasure House Fair at the Royal Hospital Chelsea in London, a multidisciplinary event that unites the world’s foremost art and antiques dealers, featuring works from antiquity through to the 21st century. In addition, she curates special exhibitions, each accompanied by the publication of fully illustrated catalogues.
Laura’s extensive knowledge culminated in the publication of her book, "The Golden Age of Japanese Okimono", fulfilling a long-held ambition. With limited literature available on the subject, her book offers the most in-depth study to date of okimono artists active during the Meiji period. Richly illustrated with over 200 photographs of Japanese carvings, bronzes, and shibayama objects from the Dr. A.M. Kanter Collection, the book provides collectors with valuable insights into the identification of different materials used, along with detailed descriptions of metalwork and shibayama techniques.
The book also explores elements of Japanese mythology, which are key to understanding the symbolism, humour, and intricacy of these remarkable pieces. Signature marks are reproduced with English translations, serving as a crucial reference for collectors, dealers, and scholars. In addition, Laura shares practical advice on the care and preservation of these finely crafted objects made by master artisans of the Meiji era.
