Sword-Hilt Collar and Pommel (Fuchigashira)
Unknown Artist
ca. 1615–1868
Medium
Copper-silver alloy (shibuichi), gold, copper
Dimensions
Fuchi (a); H. 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm); Wt. 0.9 oz. (25.5 g); kashira (b); H. 1 5/16 in. (3.3 cm); Wt. 0.6 oz. (17 g)
Classification
Sword Furniture-Fuchi-Kashira
Culture
Japanese
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
H. O. Havemeyer Collection, Bequest of Mrs. H. O. Havemeyer, 1929
Accession Number
29.100.1306a, b
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite pair of **Sword-Hilt Collar and Pommel (Fuchigashira)** from Japan, dating to around 1615–1868, represents the refined artistry of Edo-period sword fittings. The *fuchi* (collar) and *kashira* (pommel) adorned the hilt of a samurai sword, securing the handle while serving as miniature canvases for decoration. Crafted by an unknown artist, these pieces feature motifs of men and deer,oking themes of nature, hunting, or folklore common in Japanese arms decoration. Made from shibuichi—a copper-silver alloy prized for its subtle, iridescent patina—along with gold and copper, the fit...