Provenance & authentication
KICHO DROPS. — our experts travel to Japan to source each piece; once brought back, it joins the stock at a fixed price. Every object goes through the same chain: sourcing in Japan, inspection on arrival, documentation, storage in Europe. Here is the detail.
1. Sourcing in Japan
We buy from specialist shops, private collectors and Japanese sales we follow directly. Nothing is bought on the strength of an anonymous resale photo.
Each acquisition is traced: seller, date, purchase price, context. That record stays internal but decides whether we accept the piece.
2. Inspection on arrival
Graded cards are verified through their certification number with the grader: the online record must match the item received, case included. A scratched, yellowed, cracked or resealed slab is refused.
Art toys are handled in person: joints, foot stamp, copyright line, paint consistency, weight, condition of the original box.
Sculptures and signed editions are checked on signature, numbering, certificate where one exists, and surface condition.
3. Documenting condition
Condition is described as it is, flaws included. Yellowing, a pressure mark or a damaged box appears on the listing. We would rather lose a sale than disappoint on delivery.
Where recent public sales exist for the same reference in comparable condition, we cite them as a market reference. Observations, never a forecast.
4. Storage and shipping from Europe
Accepted pieces are stored in Europe, away from light and at controlled humidity. Nothing ships from Japan or Hong Kong.
The direct consequence: the listed price includes European VAT and no customs charge is added on delivery. Orders leave within two working days, insured and tracked.
5. One copy, once
Each reference is a single physical object. Once sold, the page stays online marked sold: we do not relist an identical copy, because none exists.
FAQ
What if a piece does not match its description?
You have 14 days to return it. If the discrepancy comes from our description, we cover the return and refund in full, shipping included.
Do you provide a certificate of authenticity?
Graded cards are sealed with their label and publicly verifiable certification number. For other pieces we supply our inspection record and, where it exists, the original certificate from the editor or artist.
Why ship from Europe rather than Japan?
A direct shipment from Japan triggers import VAT, customs duty and carrier handling fees, all payable by the recipient. With European stock, the listed price is the final price.