Art Funded by you

Japanese court sword

Unknown artist, 1682

A ceremonial sword used by courtiers and senior officials.

The blade is relatively poor in quality and construction since it was ceremonial, rather than military, in function. An inscription states it was made in 1682 for Lord Nobumitsu (or Tsunemitsu), who is otherwise unknown.

The sword is luxuriously inlaid with pairs of mythical H?-? birds in mother of pearl and turquoise enamels inlaid into the metal fittings of gilt filigree. The decoration also includes the triple hollyhock crest of the Tokugawa family and a design of kiri (Pauwlonia) leaves. There is a guard of the Shitogi shape c1800.

More information

Title of artwork, date

Japanese court sword, 1682

Date supported

1915

Medium and material

Lacquer & mother-of-pearl scabbard

Dimensions

Length 96 cm

Gifted by

Sir Henry H Howorth

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