Anonymous (Japanese artist)
Morimiya Toshinori (Japanese, 1830-1897) (?)
Title Tsuka with Animals
Description
English: Three animals, all of which appear regularly in Japanese folk tales, are featured on this tsuka. The kashira is in the shape of a monkey. This is probably made by the same metalworker who made the accompanying fuchi because there is a folk tale about an encounter between a monkey and crab (which is shown on the fuchi). One menuki is in the shape of a badger. The other is of a rabbit pounding rice cakes. This is the figure said to be in the moon. The tsuka is part of a mounted set.
Date second half of 19th century (Meiji)
Medium brown lacquer, iron, ray skin, gold, copper
Dimensions Length: 18.3 cm (7.2 in).