Asian Renaissance

About

Asian Image's sister store, Asian Renaissance (662 Grant Ave.) presents many possibilities for those of gift-giving sensibilities: ceramic tea and sake sets ($29.95-$69.95) in traditional and contemporary glazes redefine stuffy notions of the classic accoutréments of tea and hospitality. The Silk Brocade Bedding Set (consisting of a duvet cover and four shams; $498) may be a bit of a splurge, but, presented with the prospect of such sumptuous bedding, one is hard-pressed to feel that they are not worth a pampering. The items I was the most taken with were the vintage-inspired metal thermoses ($9.95) featuring 40's- and 50's-style images and floral prints, choice objects for anyone with a fondness for vintagey accessories. -- Anthony Russell