AN IETSUGU KATANA (WITH LUCKY GODS HOTEI AND EBISU)
Overview (Photos follow Description)
A very blessed signed katana by Ietsugu from Kaga province (Ishikawa prefecture) circa Eiroku Era (1558~1570) in the late Muromachi period.
Both the sword and koshirae have been granted NBTHK Hozon status proving its guaranteed authenticity.
Uchigatana Edo-period koshirae: saya is black coloured with the design of pine tree leaves and makie (gold lacquer).
Fuchigashira is made from iron with the design of arabesque pattern and a paulownia and takabori and silver inlay.
The menuki (hilt grip ornaments) are made of shakudo with carved silver, copper and gold in the design of the lucky gods Ebisu on one side and the god Hotei on the other!
Ebisu is the infamous Japanese god of fishermen, luck, and workingmen, as well as the guardian of the health of small children. Ebisu is often portrayed holding a rod and a large red sea bream or sea bass. The great Ebisu can be enjoyed on any can or bottle of Japan’s delicious Yebisu beer.
Hotei, the Japanese god of contentment and happiness, guardian of children. He has a cheerful face and a big belly. Widely recognized as the Laughing Buddha. He carries a large cloth bag over his back, one that never empties, for he uses it to feed the poor and needy.
The kozuka (paper knife) also depicts the god Hotei. Extra luck for good measure!
Tsuba is made from iron from the Kinai School. It’s shape is round openwork with gold texture inlay. Signed Echizen Ju Kinai saku.
This sword has been sold to a private collector.
Photos
*All photos taken professionally by Eric Bossick for Unique Japan
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