Julian Shen
"I collect objects to find the parts of myself that history left behind."
As a second-generation curator, my work is about reconnection. I didn't grow up with these traditions; I had to find them. I look for the "Hybrid Soul" in objects—where ancient craftsmanship meets modern utility.
Heritage Reimagined
We move beyond the souvenir shop mentality. I hunt for artifacts that fit into a modern loft as comfortably as they would in a temple. It's about "Tactile Memory"—the cool touch of a jade roller, the weight of a brass paperweight.
At Eastern Zen Living, I ensure every object is not just 'exotic,' but ethically sourced and relevant. We are not just preserving the past; we are carrying it forward.
Posts by Julian Shen
Marble, Travertine, or Slate for Small Home Objects and Surfaces
Material Decision Marble, Travertine, or Slate for Small Home Objects and Surfaces For most small home objects, the practical ans...
What Counts as a Natural Home Material When You Are Buying for Daily Use
Daily-use buying guide What Counts as a Natural Home Material When You Are Buying for Daily Use A natural home material is a mate...
Everyday Tea Practice Without Overcomplicating It
Practical Home Tea Everyday Tea Practice Without Overcomplicating It An everyday tea practice is not a performance. For most homes, the re...
Solid Wood, Veneer, or Laminate: What to Check Before Buying
Solid Wood, Veneer, or Laminate: What to Check Before Buying Do not buy by the headline material alone. For solid wood vs veneer vs lam...
When Natural Materials Are Not the Most Practical Choice at Home
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Natural vs Synthetic Materials for Everyday Home Objects
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Is Darkening on Natural Home Objects Patina, Dirt, or Staining
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Small Teapot or Large Teapot for Everyday Loose-Leaf Tea
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What Counts as Natural Material Patina in Everyday Home Objects
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How Placement Affects Patina, Fading, and Wear on Natural Objects
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Patina, Wear, and Damage in Natural Home Objects
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Mala Beads and Symbolic Jewelry: Materials, Wear, and Buying Checks
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Handmade Tea Ceramics: Texture, Grip, Heat, and Care
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Sound Bowls and Tuning Forks: Materials, Use Cases, and Buying Checks
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Wide Tea Cup vs Tall Tea Cup: How Cup Shape Changes the Drink
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Tea Ceramic Types and How They Change Everyday Use
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How Humidity and Sunlight Affect Natural Materials Indoors
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Small Personal Display Corners: Objects, Shelves, and Travel Kits
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Incense Burners and Scent Vessels: Materials, Smoke, and Care
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Raw Crystal Specimens: Buying, Sourcing, and Display Checks
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