南蛮二所物
Namban Futakoromono
Iron Kozuka and Kogai
NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon

Dimensions: Kozuka with blade 220 mm x 14 mm
Kogai 214 mm x 12.5 mm


An extraordinarily rare Namban Futakoromono. This is a matched set that was made by the same hand and has been together since the day they were made. In the study of Namban items, one hardly ever encounters any fittings other than tsuba. A kogai or kozuka alone would be an exciting find, this futakoromono reaches the level of once-in-a-lifetime. The theme of this set is lotus, Shachihoko (an animal in Japanese folklore with the head of a tiger and the body of a carp) hoju (sacred jewel) and water caltrop.

There are many interesting points of appreciation to explore in these. The carving style of the theme shows an archaic tagane approach. The Hoju of each piece is hollow and has a bead inside. Each one "rattles" when you shake it. This is a clear Namban trait according to the Namban section of the Nihonto Koza which states, "there is one (type) in which balls are inserted and these emit a sound every time they are shaken". The reverse of each is carved and they are both full ji-sukashi. The blade is integral to the kozuka, quite unlike other schools of the time. The undercutting of each is identical and the set shows the typical size and proportions of Namban work.

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