The Zentner Collection has become a heritage business spanning multiple generations, 40+ years and offers the largest and finest collection of Asian Art available for sale in the USA. All tucked away in our historic 36,000 sq.
Reviews (25)
Eva Chi
Apr 06, 2022
Janis W.
Jan 25, 2022
I have a long history going back over thirty years with the Zentner Collection and the family who owns and operates this gem of a business. Over the years I have purchased numerous items from their huge collection of stunning pieces, from tansus to ranmas to baskets and water urns and once even a giant mortar and pestle for a garden ornament. If it exists, they have it.
Beyond just being an excellent source, the family has always gone above and beyond, including from an artistic standpoint. Once, my then husband and I bought a large tansu from them to use as a china cabinet, but then we couldn't find a table or chairs in the retail stores that looked appropriate with it. Jenny Zentner always has loved a challenge, and she sketched out a table, which was so absolutely perfect -- and she even had a recommendation of a furniture maker to build it.
When was the last time anyone went to that extent for you as a client? Another time I had the idea that I wanted a coffee table made from a "found object" as I had seen in design magazines. Over the period of a few weeks, Jenny and I went on hunting trips into her warehouse, looking for perhaps two good sized matching pots that I might be able to rest a slab of glass on top of, or we even considered a basket that could have support added inside to hold up a piece of glass.
In the end, we found a perfect ranma with a lattice look to it that was cut down by their excellent woodworker-staff; the ranma sat on a metal frame and I ordered a glass top for it. I get so many compliments on it. It is a one-of-a-kind and looks marvelous with my Japanese tansus. I can't say enough good things about the Zentner Collection. I have never had anything but the best experiences there. I have learned so much from them as they enjoy sharing the history of any of their pieces. Prepare to be impressed. Janis Wild
Beyond just being an excellent source, the family has always gone above and beyond, including from an artistic standpoint. Once, my then husband and I bought a large tansu from them to use as a china cabinet, but then we couldn't find a table or chairs in the retail stores that looked appropriate with it. Jenny Zentner always has loved a challenge, and she sketched out a table, which was so absolutely perfect -- and she even had a recommendation of a furniture maker to build it.
When was the last time anyone went to that extent for you as a client? Another time I had the idea that I wanted a coffee table made from a "found object" as I had seen in design magazines. Over the period of a few weeks, Jenny and I went on hunting trips into her warehouse, looking for perhaps two good sized matching pots that I might be able to rest a slab of glass on top of, or we even considered a basket that could have support added inside to hold up a piece of glass.
In the end, we found a perfect ranma with a lattice look to it that was cut down by their excellent woodworker-staff; the ranma sat on a metal frame and I ordered a glass top for it. I get so many compliments on it. It is a one-of-a-kind and looks marvelous with my Japanese tansus. I can't say enough good things about the Zentner Collection. I have never had anything but the best experiences there. I have learned so much from them as they enjoy sharing the history of any of their pieces. Prepare to be impressed. Janis Wild
Janis Wild
Jan 16, 2022
I have had a long business relationship with the Zentner family -- over thirty years now. An interior decorator recommended their business to me, and I considered her absolutely tops, so that meant a lot to have her recommend this business. And every experience with the Zentner Collection has been as perfect as I could wish for. Over the years I have purchased tansus for every room, a hibachi (that I made into a side table), ranmas, urns for the patio, baskets, and even a very large mortar and pestle that I used as a garden ornament.
The Zentner family and their staff will give you all the time and attention you wish, explaining the history of each piece and what makes it of particular interest. Their inventory is astounding and exquisite. They have often gone above and beyond what any client could expert. Once, my then husband and I bought a 6' long tansu from them that we fell in love with and which we intended to use as a china cabinet, -- but then we couldn't find a table and chairs at any of the stores that would look appropriate with it.
I mentioned my search to Jenny Zentner one day and she promptly sketched out a table she had in mind, which was so absolutely spot on. She even had a recommendation of a furniture maker and before long, our new dining room was complete. Another time I wanted a coffee table that would be unique and not some generic thing from a furniture store. Jenny and I went on a few "shopping trips" through her inventory looking for something that could double in some way as a coffee table.
Then we found this lovely ranma, and this one was a beautiful lattice of sorts, all made in mortice and tenon. Her skilled workmen cut it down to size for a coffee table, Jenny had a metalsmith to make a base in which the ranma could rest -- all I had to do was buy a glass slab for the top. I get so many compliments on it and it is a story in itself, and one that brings back those pleasant hunts we made for that special item.
This is the kind of extra mile you get from a family owned business. Over all of these years, I have come to appreciate this business more with each experience. I give them the highest rating because they truly deserve it.
The Zentner family and their staff will give you all the time and attention you wish, explaining the history of each piece and what makes it of particular interest. Their inventory is astounding and exquisite. They have often gone above and beyond what any client could expert. Once, my then husband and I bought a 6' long tansu from them that we fell in love with and which we intended to use as a china cabinet, -- but then we couldn't find a table and chairs at any of the stores that would look appropriate with it.
I mentioned my search to Jenny Zentner one day and she promptly sketched out a table she had in mind, which was so absolutely spot on. She even had a recommendation of a furniture maker and before long, our new dining room was complete. Another time I wanted a coffee table that would be unique and not some generic thing from a furniture store. Jenny and I went on a few "shopping trips" through her inventory looking for something that could double in some way as a coffee table.
Then we found this lovely ranma, and this one was a beautiful lattice of sorts, all made in mortice and tenon. Her skilled workmen cut it down to size for a coffee table, Jenny had a metalsmith to make a base in which the ranma could rest -- all I had to do was buy a glass slab for the top. I get so many compliments on it and it is a story in itself, and one that brings back those pleasant hunts we made for that special item.
This is the kind of extra mile you get from a family owned business. Over all of these years, I have come to appreciate this business more with each experience. I give them the highest rating because they truly deserve it.
Shawn Cochran
Jan 05, 2022
Dale Gaar
Nov 15, 2021
Cindy C.
Feb 21, 2020
An absolutely beautiful collection of museum quality pieces. I bought a Korean tansu that was the perfect size, except for the height. Robert and his staff built a custom stand for it, which fit perfectly and looked like it had always been there. Friendly, knowledgeable people and beautiful products.
Romona M.
Nov 09, 2019
Beautiful array of furniture! Robert is delightful to work with, knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. I could get lost in this place for hours, you can smell and stare your way into a wonderful story of what these pieces have glimpses in history. It's a great place to go for inspiration! But also.for furniture and decor. I bought a beautiful Japanese tansho cabinet with a persimmon wood accent that is unusual and very elegant. I'm delighted with it! Highly recommend this place!
Kimberly R.
Aug 10, 2019
Wow! What an amazing collection of treasures. Super pricy and not for the thrifty shopper. Museum Quality. Honesty to make sure the right buyers find this gem. If you are looking for authentic, historical collectibles- this is the place. Great find! Don't waste your time with cheap imported crap when you are looking for authentic treasures!
A. L.
Jun 26, 2019
Worth seeing! Especially if you are at all a history buff or art lover or even can just appreciate very highly crafted and antique Asian furniture and decorations. I was blown away by the skill it much have taken to make all of the items. Great for collectors of Asian art and furniture. We just walked around to look, but everything in the building is for sale. It really doesn't look like much from the outside but if you are looking for a place to see unique art and furniture please visit, would recommend!
Rocky G.
Oct 02, 2018
Was looking for some fine pics for my new office. When I get to the place, I do find some nice pieces, there is an old man trying to introduce the furnitures, but a young man Interrupt him and asked me to leave. I don't know if he was judging by my outfit or by race thinks I can't afford it or something else. If I can't afford to buy, why would I be there at the first time?
Toni C.
Apr 21, 2018
My great-grandmother's glass bowl was broken by a carpet cleaner that we had come over to do some cleaning. My little brother found Zentner so we brought the bowl to them for repairs. First off, it turned out absolutely beautiful and my mother is thrilled that her grandmother's bowl was able to be repaired. Second, all of the employees were all absolutely amazing.
They were so patient dealing with us as we waited for the 3rd party insurance company to give us information. I had to email and call them frequently while dealing with the insurance company and everyone was always super friendly. I can't thank them enough for their help and I would absolutely return. Thank you Robert and Jade!
They were so patient dealing with us as we waited for the 3rd party insurance company to give us information. I had to email and call them frequently while dealing with the insurance company and everyone was always super friendly. I can't thank them enough for their help and I would absolutely return. Thank you Robert and Jade!
Catherine J.
Aug 14, 2017
To my fellow antiques lovers - you must visit this place! Antiques stores have been closing all over the Bay Area because for some reason people prefer overpriced, factory-made in China Pottery Barn, Ikea, etc. Zentner is a huge warehouse full of beautiful Asian antiques from Japan, China, India, Korea. Incredible antique rugs, doors, caseboxes, cane chairs, tansus. It's a treat to have a tour from the owner. Also, he makes custom made furniture too with hand-picked high quality wood. This place is fantastic, one of the best, if not the best, antiques store in the Bay Area.
Carla E.
May 06, 2017
Very cool place to visit to see and touch Asian furniture, art, and other things. The owners are incredibly knowledgeable and super friendly. They love what they do. I saw something that some of my family members would be interested in having. They have an extensive online store as well. Will definitely come back again!
Dena C.
Feb 18, 2017
Kevin Morgan
Jan 19, 2017
Savanah Baker
Mar 05, 2016
What a place! a must visit if you are looking for a Huge selection of Japanese and South eastern antiques. Furniture selection is bar none the best in the country. Huge inventory and great staff. Family Run business, great to see in the days of Huge Companies. If you are in the Bay Area check them out. There website is also stunning. Loved this Place
Daniel H.
Dec 26, 2015
What a place! You will not understand until you visit them. Huge selection of quality pieces from all over Southeast Asia. Stunning selection of Japanese furniture that is unrivaled anywhere in the US. Honestly I refer anyone to this stores that is looking for something special for their home. They are a family run business, how many of these are still around?
I have been there many times and always find something to add to my growing collection. If you are in Northern California, make a point to visit them. You will not be disappointed.
I have been there many times and always find something to add to my growing collection. If you are in Northern California, make a point to visit them. You will not be disappointed.
Gary Llamido
Nov 09, 2015
Best kept secret in the Bay area the Zentner Collection has been in business for 30 years dealing in fine Asian Arts. They specialize in rare Japanese Tansu's and exceptional Chinese works of art. There new interiors space is more gallery and its worth spending the time to view there fantastic collection which they rotate for special events. If your serious collector it the place to be! If you can name it, they have it!
Rick P.
Mar 23, 2015
Cliff L.
Mar 20, 2015
Excellent! A real treat for anyone who is interested in Asian antiques. Rustic museum like quality. A rare warehouse. I love browsing their catalog online. Family owned an operated. However, there are some serious family issues that affect business. After negotiating, I once made an expensive purchase. ( About a year ago.) I was in the process of paying for it, when the wife of the owner threw an emotional hissy fit and started yelling at her husband saying that the item was under priced.
The husband excused himself to speak with her in a back room and I could still hear her screaming at him, saying that "no one listens" to her. He returned shaking his head saying that his wife was "hysterical - just hysterical" and that he had to raise the price a thousand dollars. Needless to say, I chose not to buy the item and haven't been back since. I left flabbergasted. It was the most bizarre purchase I almost made.
The husband excused himself to speak with her in a back room and I could still hear her screaming at him, saying that "no one listens" to her. He returned shaking his head saying that his wife was "hysterical - just hysterical" and that he had to raise the price a thousand dollars. Needless to say, I chose not to buy the item and haven't been back since. I left flabbergasted. It was the most bizarre purchase I almost made.
Tito Y.
Dec 11, 2014
Dropped in, looking for some ideas for a new interior project we're working on. Liked the new fish tank set about 1/2 in the warehouse. Helpful, supportive and unique furniture. Gotta lot the assortment or rugs, opium beds, occasional and assorted furniture. You only need one or two cool pieces to perk up a boring living room.
Justis M.
Oct 05, 2014
Jana H.
Oct 01, 2014
So I am redecorating my home and have been searching to find quality furniture with an Asian flare. I stumbled upon this gem on google and stopped in last week. They have at least four different rooms of wonderful furniture that I was able to feast my eyes on for hours! I was like a kid in a candy store. I finally decided on two pieces of gorgeous furniture and dare I say, I will be back for more. I've read the reviews about the bug damage and infestation.
I am pleased to say that my items are bug damage free and gorgeous. Prices were totally reasonable/fair and the guys who were helping me were genuinely caring, not just trying to sell me something. In fact the whole staff was pleasant and knew their stuff. All in all, I give this establishment 5 stars. They deserve it!
I am pleased to say that my items are bug damage free and gorgeous. Prices were totally reasonable/fair and the guys who were helping me were genuinely caring, not just trying to sell me something. In fact the whole staff was pleasant and knew their stuff. All in all, I give this establishment 5 stars. They deserve it!
Michael Y.
Aug 15, 2014
When I die, bury me here. That is all. Great, attentive service. We're not high rollers by any means, but we were treated with dignity and respect even though we were looking at pretty humble pieces (relative to the overall collection). I didn't get that stuffy, condescending vibe I get in many higher end Bay Area fine furnishings stores, not at all.
In the end, we did decide to buy about 5 different pieces, all of which were actually pretty reasonably priced, and the owner even discounted some of the items (we didn't even have to ask). So, to conclude. Amazing, mind-blowing collection of artifacts -- most of which are literally one of a kind. Kind, courteous, and downright helpful owners and staff. Prices that are fair and reasonable, especially considering the nature of what they carry here. Strongly recommend Zentner Collection. But beware: I fear this may become habit-forming.
In the end, we did decide to buy about 5 different pieces, all of which were actually pretty reasonably priced, and the owner even discounted some of the items (we didn't even have to ask). So, to conclude. Amazing, mind-blowing collection of artifacts -- most of which are literally one of a kind. Kind, courteous, and downright helpful owners and staff. Prices that are fair and reasonable, especially considering the nature of what they carry here. Strongly recommend Zentner Collection. But beware: I fear this may become habit-forming.
Jenny S.
Feb 04, 2013