Description
This item is an antique Kayakuire (火薬入れ, powder flask). It is a small container to store gunpowder. In Japan, powder flasks were made from developed materials and produced with advanced techniques. Some of them were gorgeously painted with lacquer. We estimate this powder flask was made in the Edo period or later. While its metal surface has been worn down due to aging, it seems the surface was initially colored with golden paint. It makes an elegant color contrast.
You see that the Netsuke (根付, miniature sculpture) is attached to this case. It is a fastener used when hanging various items such as Inro (印籠, case), purse, or small bag from the Obi (帯, belt) with a string and carrying them around. You could hang this powder flask on your belt and enjoy it as a part of your fashion.
The motif on this powder flask is Hidari Mitsu domoe (左三巴), a traditional Japanese family crest. This crest features three comma-shaped swirls (similar to magatama beads) arranged in a circular pattern, all turning to the left, with the tails of the swirls flowing in that direction. A famous Samurai who used this crest was Hijikata Toshizō (土方歳三), the vice-commander of the Shinsengumi (新選組).
The Tomoe crests, including this one, are extremely ancient patterns that can even be seen in Jōmon-period (縄文時代, 14,000 BCE to 300 BCE.) archaeological sites. They symbolize the sound of thunder, as seen in the drums carried by Raijin, the god of thunder. These crests are historically among the earliest family emblems to appear in Japan. Over time, they have been widely used—not only as family crests for noble and samurai families but also as emblems for shrines and temples—and they exist in an extraordinarily wide variety of forms.
*As this item is an antique, please check each photo and ensure its condition.
【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】
We accept payment through Stripe (Credit card), PayPal, Apple Pay or ChromePay, all of which are secure payment methods. Also, you don’t need to make an account on Stripe for the checkout. If you prefer other payment method, please contact us. You may either pay in JPY, USD, AUD, CAD, EUR or GBP. The price is set in Japanese Yen. Prices in other currencies are automatically calculated based on the latest exchange rate.
【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 antique item and we are prepared to use the best of our ability to serve you.
Would you like see some more Antique items for sale? Please check the link below. We hope you can find your favorite item.
https://www.samuraimuseum.jp/shop/product-category/antique/
