Set of Sword Fittings (Mitokoromono)
19th century
Medium
Iron, gold, copper-silver alloy (shibuichi)
Dimensions
sword guard (tsuba) (17.208.32a) 2 5/8 x 2 3/8 in. (6.7 x 6.0 cm); cord knob (kurigata) (17.208.32b) 1 1/4 x 3/4 in. (3.2 x 1.9 cm); socket brace for knife (uragawara) (17.208.32c) 1 1/4 x 3/4 in. (3.2 x 1.9 cm); pommel cap (kashira) (17.208.32d) 1 3/8 x 3/4 in. (3.5 x 1.9 cm); hilt collar (fuchi) (17.208.32e) 1 1/2 x 3/4 in. (3.8 x 1.9 cm); knife handle (kozuka) (17.208.42) L. 3 3/4 in. (9.5 cm)
Classification
Sword Furniture-Fittings, Sets of
Culture
Japanese
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of a Trustee of the Museum, 1917
Accession Number
17.208.32a–e, .42
Art Historical Context
This exquisite set of sword fittings, known as *Mitokoromono*, was crafted by the skilled Japanese metalworker Ginshtei Tōmei in 19th century during Japan's late Edo period. Comprising a sword guard (*tsuba*), cord knob (*kurigata socket brace (*uragara*), pommel capkashira*), hilt (*fuchi*), and handle (*kozuka*), small yet intricate pieces (ranging from 1¼ to 2⅝ inches) were essential components for decorating and functionalizing samurai swords. Acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in 1917 as a gift from a museum trustee, they exemplify the fusion of weaponry and artistry in feudal Jap...