Title: Ba To
Description
This fuchi-kashira has been authenticated by the NBTHK (The Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords) and bears the signature of Muneyoshi (宗義), who identified himself as a resident of Edo (modern-day Tokyo). The inscription “Kōfu jūnin” (江府住人) confirms that this piece was crafted in Edo during the samurai era.
Also, beneath the signature, there is a kaō (花押)—a stylized personal seal or monogram traditionally used by Japanese artisans and samurai as a mark of authenticity and personal identity.
The material used is shakudō nanako-ji (赤銅魚々子地). Shakudō is a traditional Japanese alloy composed primarily of copper with a small amount of gold. It is known for developing a rich, bluish-black patina when treated, giving it a deep, elegant finish. The term nanako-ji refers to a finely punched background texture resembling fish roe, often used in high-quality sword fittings to add refinement and visual depth.
Regarding the design, the motif on this fuchi-kashira is a depiction of a horse (馬図, Ba To), a traditional subject in Japanese art symbolizing strength, vitality, and nobility. Horses were not only essential in warfare and transportation, but also held spiritual significance, often associated with shrines and offerings to the gods.
In Japanese tradition, the horse symbolizes strength, speed, vitality, and loyalty, and has long been associated with warriors and nobility. Horses played a central role in the lives of the samurai, not only in battle but also as status symbols and companions. Beyond their practical use, horses were also considered spiritual creatures. In ancient Japan, they were believed to be messengers of the gods (shinme), and live horses—or later wooden plaques with horse images (ema)—were offered at Shinto shrines in prayer for good harvests, health, and protection.
*As this item is an antique, please check each photo and ensure its condition.
What is Fuchi Kashira?
Fuchi Kashira is a kind of metal fitting of the Japanese sword, which improves the handle’s strength. Fuchi Kashira is a combination of two parts; Fuchi and Kashira. Fuchi was put next to Tsuba (hand-guard), and Kashira was put on the grip bottle. Fuchi Kashira had developed not only its practicality but also beauty for the decoration of the Japanese sword.
Why is it that the sword mounting was important for Samurai?
The sword mountings of the Japanese sword have many kinds of decorations such as handguards (Tsuba), sword hilt (Menuki), pommel (Fuchi Kashira). The Japanese sword worked as a weapon and as an object to show who he was. For example, it shows their personalities and beliefs. You could say that it is like decorations for smartphones today. We recommend you zoom in on the pictures of the sword fittings. When you do so, you can see the skill of Japanese metal engraving techniques. They are mainly made of iron and copper with inlays of gold, silver, and bronze. When it comes to handguard (Tsuba), each one has a different outline and weight. These sword fittings that have lived with Japanese swords of the same age might be worth as much as the Japanese swords. They are inconspicuous parts of the Japanese sword. Nevertheless, if you are knowledgeable or particular about it, you will become a connoisseur of the Samurai.
Authentication Paper：NBTHK Hozon Certificate (No. 4023726)
NBTHK, also known as Nihon Bijutsu Touken Hozon Kyokai (the Society for the Preservation of the Japan Art Sword), is one of the oldest Japanese sword appraising organizations in modern-day Japan. They authenticated the Fuchi Kashira on September 26th in the 6th year of Reiwa (2024). They appraised it as Hozon Tousougu, the Fuchi Kashira worth preserving for Japanese society. The purchaser will receive this original certificate as well. We can also translate what is written into English and make a PDF file for your record if you request.
【About us】
Samurai Museum is located in Tokyo, Japan, exhibiting antique artifacts related to the Samurai history. Samurai Museum Shop is the place for those who are interested in Japanese culture and craftsmanship. We deal with antique Samurai swords/armor, traditional crafts made in Japan and so on.
【Payment method】
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【Shipping duration】
We normally ship via EMS (Express Mail Service) provided by Japan Post. It usually takes at least 5-14 days to deliver the package after you place an order.
We offer Free International Shipping as long as we can ship your order by EMS. If you prefer other shipping carriers, please contact us.
We will inform you of the order’s tracking number via email. Please make sure you fill out your valid email address correctly.
【How to make sure the condition】
Please keep in mind that what you are going to purchase is an antique item. We uploaded high resolution photos for you to check its condition thoroughly. If you like to see more photos with different angles, please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to send them to you so that you can make informed decision.
It is essential for us to know that you are happy with your choice of Fuchi Kashira and we are prepared to use the best of our ability to serve you.
Would you like see some more Fuchi Kashira for sale? Please check the link below. We hope you can find your favorite Fuchi Kashira.
https://www.samuraimuseum.jp/shop/product-category/decorations/fuchigashira/
