Anonymous

Edo period 19th century

1615-1868

Tanto Kashira-e

A mid-19th century kashira-e housing for a tanto blade. The saya (scabbard) finished in a red-brown lacquer, the tsuka (hilt) covered in same (ray skin) in white silk tsukmaki wrapping in lozenge pattern, menuki (hilt grips), fuchi (hilt collar), koiguchi (scabbard mouth) kurigata (cord runner), kaerizuno (cord hook), and kojiri (end of scabbard), all in chiselled bronze work covered in gilt.

Dragons over wave motifs decorate the fitting. The dragon is seen as the lord of beasts holding all the aspects of the zodiac animals. Known as a spirit that can control the rain it is often depicted flying among clouds or water.

The two menuki fittings are of the same design as a pair previously in the possession of the G.H. Naunton collection seen here in the private publication of 1912 by Henri L. Joly. Collection number 4386.

Unsigned

Size 435mm