Horse-Needle (Bashin) or Double-Edged Knife (Umabari)
Not on view
This is interesting as a uniquely Japanese form of implement, but decorated in a Chinese style, possibly by a Japanese craftsman working in Nagasaki. The shape of the handle, and particularly its earspoon finial, resemble a more typical sword accessory known as a kogai. However, the blade belongs with the bashin (horse-needle) or umabari (double-edged knife) type, making this piece an unusual hybrid both in its form and its style of decoration.
No image available
