Abhaya

Abhaya was among my top finds in NYC this week. An impeccably curated treasure trove of Asian antiques ranging from pottery to furnishings to decorative art is more gallery or museum than shop front. I am not exaggerating when I write that Abhaya’s collection would be indiscernible among the Asian collections at the Museum of Fine Art in Boston or the Peabody Essex Museum in Salem, MA.
I was warmly greeted by Howard Ellis, a former attorney, who owns the store in partnership with his wife. Though I was looking pretty bad in a sweaty t-​shirt, Giants cap and backpack slung over my shoulder after 24 miles of biking in 90 °F weather, he engaged in conversation.
Chinese objects dominate, though Japan and other Asian countries are represented. On my visit I saw desirable objects for a little as $ 300 to a hand-​carved Chinese chest I lusted over at $ 27,000. Howard said that Abhaya provided most of the Asian pieces at the nearby Greenwich Hotel where my wife and I were staying. I can attest that those objets d’art are a critical element of the Greenwich Hotel’s aesthetic.
If you are looking for truly unique, sublime Asian art and furniture for your home or business, or that of your clients, or just need to get out of the elements, Abhaya provides a refuge of serenity and transcendence near the chaotic entrance to the Holland Tunnel. Howard plans to get to Burma/​Myanmar as soon as politically possible (trade sanctions remain in place). I cannot wait to see what he and his wife return with. If you stop by, say «hi» to Sugar Ray, Abhaya’s version of a Fu Dog (see photo).
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