Description
This wooden sword stand is ideal for displaying a katana or a daishō set (katana and wakizashi).
It features different designs on the front and back, each adorned with the traditional Japanese raden (螺鈿, mother-of-pearl inlay) technique. Raden involves embedding thin layers of iridescent shell into a lacquered wooden surface, creating shimmering patterns that change beautifully depending on the angle of light. The delicate glow and intricate detailing reflect the refined craftsmanship of Japanese lacquer artisans.
The front side depicts “Ume ni Uguisu” (梅に鶯, plum blossoms and bush warblers), a classic motif symbolizing harmony, elegance, and the arrival of spring in Japanese culture. Although actual bush warblers are less commonly seen together with plum blossoms than mejiro birds, this pairing became firmly established through traditional Chinese-inspired art and motifs such as those found on Japanese hanafuda playing cards.
The reverse side appears to depict a scene from ancient China, suggested by the style of clothing and architecture. Pine and bamboo trees are shown around the castle-like structure, both of which are auspicious symbols associated with resilience and longevity in East Asian culture. One particularly interesting detail is the long-handled fan-like object carried by the attendant on the left. This object is called a sashiba (翳), a ceremonial screen or fan used by attendants serving high-ranking individuals. It functioned both practically — shielding from sunlight and insects — and symbolically, helping to conceal and elevate the noble figure from public view, thereby enhancing their dignity and mystique.
Through details such as these, the artwork offers a glimpse into the aesthetics, court customs, and symbolic culture admired in East Asia during earlier historical periods.
*As this product is an antique, there are small scratches and dents on the wood. Please check each photo and ensure its condition.
*Please note that these Display swords are NOT included in this item.
【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, CHF 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. Time of delivery is estimated as accurately as possible by the carrier but does not take into account any delays beyond our control such as by inclement weather, post office holiday seasons.
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.
*If you like to make sure if EMS shipping is available to your country, please contact us.
【Antique Japanese item and Export process】
After receiving the full payment from you, we will apply for its export permit from the Board of Education to legally export the item to other countries. It normally takes around 2 to 4 weeks to receive this permit. And we would like you to expect at least 1.0 – 1.5 months for your order to arrive at your given address after you ordered.
【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/
