Jumonji-yari (spear)
Culture
Japanese
Date1700s–1800s
Mediumsteel, wood, textile, gold, lacquer, brass and copper
Dimensions294 × 19.5 cm (115 3/4 × 7 11/16 in.), 4 lb, 4 oz (weight). 3/4 in. dia. at collar, just above tang.
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.247.1
DescriptionSteel cross-shaped, bluntly pointed double edge thrusting blade of lozenge section. Basal blades of similar section, curving up to points at tips. Long tang fitted into long wooden shaft of circular section with four-stage wrapping below head, consisting of cord covered with gold lacquer; mounts at ends, molded rings between stages; these appear to be of copper covered with blackened silver foil. The remainder of shaft spiralled by cordage wrapped around staff & heavily lacquered in brown or black. Base of shaft with cylindrical shakudo ring & stout conical iron butt spike transversely pierced.ProvenancePurchased by Museum from Yamanaka & Company on December 19, 1933, their no. YP Spl/#89. Price of $17.50 included both HAM#s 2029.1 and 2029.2. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
Not on viewabout 1600–1650
late 1800s