Sword-Hilt Collar and Pommel (Fuchigashira)
Unknown Artist
ca. 1615–1868
Medium
Copper-silver alloy (shibuichi), gold
Dimensions
Fuchi (a); H. 1 1/2 in. (3.8 cm); Wt. 0.7 oz. (19.8 g); kashira (b); H. 1 5/16 in. (3.3 cm); Wt. 0.3 oz. (8.5 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
29.100.1307a, b
Tags
Art Historical Context
This elegant pair of *fuchigashira*—a sword-hilt collar (*fuchi*) and pom (*kashira*)—hails from Japan’s Edo period (ca. 1615–1868), a time of relative peace when samurai culture flourished through refined craftsmanship. These fittings adorned the hilts of katana swords, transforming functional weapons into symbols of status and artistry. Produced by an unknown artisan, they exemplify the intricate metalwork that elevated sword mounts (*koshirae*) to wearable sculptures. Crafted from shibuichi, a copper-silver alloy prized for its subtle, shimmering patina, the pieces are enriched with gold a...