Project Description
This is an exceptional Edo period daimyō tachi koshirae in issaku-kanagu form—a complete suite of matching tosōgu executed by a single artisan. All fittings are crafted in shakudō nanako, sculpted with kumo (clouds) and vividly rendered ryū (dragons) in gold, creating a rich, visually arresting ensemble.
The tsuba is of tachi-gata, with a blackened shakudō ground and nanakoji texture, presenting swirling kumo across the surface and paired golden ryū in bold relief—embodying both celestial authority and martial power. This thematic and technical execution continues flawlessly across the fuchi-kashira, menuki, kojiri, koiguchi, and kurigata, exemplifying the harmony and refinement expected in elite koshirae.
The saya is finished in deep red urushi, and decorated with gold makie kamon—a stylized aoi mon (paulownia leaves), a motif associated with the Tokugawa and other prominent families. Further research is need for this specific kamon.
This koshirae, with its complete set of intricately matched fittings and formal tachi configuration, was clearly commissioned for a daimyō-class family. The confluence of fine craftsmanship, highest quality material and sophisticated execution make this a rare and valuable object of the Edo period koshirae craft.
