Description
This item is a Tabaco Ire (たばこ入れ). The Fukuro (袋, pouch) and Kiseru-Dutsu (きせる筒, container of smoking pipe) are tied with a string and could be hung from the waist through a cord or belt. Tabaco Ire is a container to store chopped tobacco. In the early Edo period, it was considered elegant to wrap chopped tobacco in white paper. But people who were engaged in outdoor works tied it to a handmade purse and hung it on their waist. In addition, some people remodeled and used the Douran (胴乱, a case to store valuables or gunpowder). This way, Tabaco Ire gradually spread among ordinary people and reached the upper class. Various types of Tabaco Ires were made; Sage-Tabaco Ire (提げたばこ入れ, hang from the waist) and Kaichu-Tabaco Ire (懐中たばこ入れ, put inside of Kimono) are the typical styles. It is said the latter type was appreciated, especially Samurais and ladies.
If you focus on the metal fitting of Fukuro, you will find a horse motif. Horses have been around human life for a long time, not only as our food but also for transportation or carriage of luggage. In Japan, horses were thought of as vehicles for gods to be dedicated to shrines in ancient times. It is said it is the origin of Ema (絵馬, picture tablet used as an offering at a shrine) today. Horses had been used as a tool for rituals and festivals. After the age the Samurais appeared, wearing large armor or performing archery riding a hose became martial arts. Equestrian tactics became the pillar of military action and security activities. According to a theory, that is why the Japanese sword began to have a curve to make it suitable for slashing (the Japanese sword was straight in the beginning). Among the horse patterns, there is a design which is called “Hidari-Uma (左馬).” The letter “馬” means horse and describes the figure of a horse running to the left. And Hidari-Uma pattern refers to a picture of a horse running to the right. It shows the turning over the “horse (Uma).” There is the word Mau (舞う, dancing) in Japanese; people thought happiness would come down in association with “turning the horse” and “dancing.” Also, the horse pattern has been loved as an amulet to pray for prosperity in business.
*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】
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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.
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【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 Tsuba.
https://www.samuraimuseum.jp/shop/product-category/antique/
