FAQs
I'm having problems placing an order. What should I do?
If you're experiencing any difficulty while placing an order, please contact us using our contact form or email us directly at info@miegallery.com. We will respond as quickly as possible to assist you.
Where do your Japanese woodblock prints come from?
Our original Japanese woodblock prints are curated from reputable sources including Japanese dealers, private collectors, galleries, and international auction houses. Each print is individually researched to establish attribution, age, and authenticity.
Are your woodblock prints authentic originals?
Yes. Most of the prints sold by Mie Gallery are authentic vintage woodblock prints, not modern reproductions. Most date from the Edo period (1603–1868) and Meiji period (1868–1912). Any later impressions or re-strikes are clearly identified in the listing. If you have any questions please let us know.
How do you take photos of your prints?
We use a "smart document scanner" that takes clear, evenly lit photos of the fronts and backs of prints.
I’m new to woodblock print collecting — how do I know what to buy?
We recommend collecting prints that visually appeal to you. Japanese woodblock prints include landscapes, samurai, kabuki actors, beautiful women, mythology, animals, and historical scenes. Once you find the subjects you enjoy, consider condition, impression quality, and artist reputation. Our YouTube channel provides educational guidance for new collectors.
Why do you show both the front and back of the print?
The reverse of a print reveals important information such as paper quality, ink bleed-through, baren marks, backing history, restoration, and environmental effects. Collectors value these details when assessing authenticity and age.
How do you describe condition?
All prints are carefully inspected and honestly described. Because these works are often over 100 years old, minor wear is normal. Any notable condition issues are disclosed in both photographs and written descriptions.
How are your prints packaged and shipped?
All prints are wrapped in acid-free archival paper, protected by rigid cardboard, and shipped flat in padded packaging. Every parcel is shipped with tracking and is insured.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We ship to France from Los Angeles with UPS or USPS. Shipping costs are added to the purchase price. They are shown on the page “Shipping and payment” and at checkout, before you confirm the order. Import charges (import VAT, any customs duty, the European Union handling fee from 1 November 2026 and the carrier's customs clearance fees) are not included in the price; they are payable by you and are collected by the carrier.
How long does shipping take?
We undertake to deliver within the time for the delivery method chosen: 8 to 10 working days with UPS or USPS Priority Mail Express International; 11 to 15 working days with USPS Priority Mail International; 12 to 28 working days with USPS First-Class Package International; 5 to 8 working days for prints from Kotondo. These periods run from the order and include preparing the shipment. The applicable period is shown at checkout, before you confirm the order.
What if my print arrives damaged?
If your print is damaged in transit, please contact us. We will arrange its return at no cost to you and refund the amounts paid to Mie Gallery for the print and its delivery. Your rights under the legal guarantees remain unchanged.
What is your return policy?
You have a statutory right of withdrawal of 14 days from receipt of the print. Independently of this right, our commercial guarantee lets you return the print within 30 days of receipt for a full refund of its purchase price, as set out in the General terms and conditions of sale and on the page “Withdrawal and returns”.
Do you buy Japanese woodblock prints from individuals?
Yes. We review individual prints and collections, focusing primarily on Edo and Meiji period artists dating approximately from 1820–1900. We are generally not interested in modern reproductions but are happy to offer an opinion.
How do you price your prints?
Pricing is based on auction results, comparable gallery pricing, condition, impression quality, rarity, and acquisition cost.
Can I join your Collectors page?
Yes. Our Collectors section highlights ukiyo-e collectors worldwide. There is no cost or obligation. Simply complete the submission form and we will take care of the rest.
Do you offer certificates of authenticity?
Traditional ukiyo-e prints were not issued with certificates at the time of production. We examine every print before sale and state its date and the nature of the impression in the description. If a print does not match its description, you benefit from the legal guarantee of conformity.
Can you help me build a collection?
Absolutely. We assist collectors at all experience levels. Please contact us if you would like personalized recommendations or are seeking specific artists or subjects.
