Head for a Yari (spear) of Jumonji Form

Culture Japanese

Date1600s–early 1800s

Mediumsteel

Dimensions9 × 28 cm (3 9/16 × 11 in.), 2 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.504

DescriptionCollar 7/16" dia.; tang of rectangular cross-section, 1/4" at widest point; pierced by a peg-hole. The piece has been altered: the balustered collar is unusual, and its execution does not match that of the rest of the object. The surface of the tang is also inconsistent with the rest, suggesting that it too has been altered.
Label TextToday we associate samurai with swords, but they were in fact well rounded martial artists who were expected to master a range of weapons for use on horseback and on foot. The yari was one of the most important of these: in battle, the spear was the weapon of choice, and the sword served only as a backup. The jumonji yari was named for its resemblance to the Japanese numeral "jū" (10), which is shaped like a cross.ProvenancePurchased by John W. Higgins from Mrs. Goldman, the buyer of the entire lot #155 at the Morosini Armor sale#3986, October 11, 1932 at the American Art Galleries (NYC). Given to the Museum on July 1, 1954. Paid $15 for lot of 20 Japanese arrowheads. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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