CLA-2-97:RR:NC:2:233 A88335
Ms. Beatrice Chang
Gallery Dai Ichi Arts, Ltd.
24 West 57th Street
New York, NY 10019
RE: The tariff classification of ceramic sculptures from Japan.
Dear Ms. Chang:
In your letter dated September 11, 1996, you requested a tariff classification ruling for ceramic sculptures created by Shuhei Fujioka.
Shuhei Fujioka is a sculptor living and working in Japan. He graduated from Ritsumeikan University in 1970 and studied at Seto Eigyou Training School in 1973. In 1974, he studied under Koushou Tanimoto. Based on the submitted resume, Mr. Fujioka's works have been exhibited in various collections and he is recognized as a professional artist of the free fine arts.
Original sculptures created by Shuhei Fujioka, limited to the first 12 in an edition, are classified in subheading 9703.00.0000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for: Original sculptures and statuary, in any material. The rate of duty will be free. Sculptures that are functional or made in excess of 12 are dutiable according to their essential character.
This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Part 177 of the Customs Regulations (19 C.F.R. 177).
A copy of this ruling letter or the control number indicated above should be provided with the entry documents filed at the time this merchandise is imported. If you have any questions regarding the ruling, contact National Import Specialist Lawrence Mushinske at 212-466-5739.
Sincerely,
Roger J. Silvestri
Director
National Commodity
Specialist Division