Menuki (grip ornament) in a floral theme
Culture
Japanese
Date1800s
MediumShakudo (copper-gold alloy) with gilding
Dimensions1.5 × 3.8 cm (9/16 × 1 1/2 in.), 1/4 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.529
Label TextA pair of menuki were wrapped into the handle of each Japanese sword, one on each side. Originally serving to assist the swordsman's grip, after 1600 the function of the menuki became increasingly decorative. Embodying floral, legendary, and spiritual themes, according to the tastes of the wearer, menuki were typically designed to match the tsuba and other sword fittings.ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins on May 1, 1931 from W.O. Oldman (London, England). Given to the Museum on January 8, 1947.
Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.On View
Not on view
