Blade and Mounting for a Sword (Katana)

blade, 17th century; mounting, 19th century

Not on view

This sword mounting is made of silver decorated in various metals with a design of waves, fish, and aquatic plants. The edge of the hilt and scabbard are wrought with a design that represents bamboo. The maker, Iwamoto Kansai (岩本寛斎, active 19th century), was a student of the eighth and last master of the famous Edo-based Iwamoto School of sword fittings makers.

Artwork Details

Title: Blade and Mounting for a Sword (Katana)
Date: blade, 17th century; mounting, 19th century
Geography: Tokyo
Culture: Japanese
Medium: Steel, wood, silver, iron, copper-silver alloy (shibuichi), copper-gold alloy (shakudō), copper, gold
Dimensions: L. 37 3/16 in. (94.5 cm); L. of blade 32 11/16 in. (83 cm); L. of cutting edge 24 7/16 in. (62.1 cm); D. of curvature 9/16 in. (1.5 cm)
Classification: Swords
Credit Line: Gift of Brayton Ives and W. T. Walters, 1891
Object Number: 91.2.58
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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