Japan - Sword scabbard fitting - Edo period (1603–1868)

Japanese Antique Large Menuki — Dragon (Ryu) Design, Gilt Bronze, Sword Handle Fitting, Edo Period

Description:
Japanese Antique Large Menuki (大目貫) — Dragon Design, Gilt Bronze Sword Handle Fitting
A boldly sculpted antique Japanese large menuki (大目貫), a decorative fitting mounted on the handle (tsuka) of a Japanese sword as part of a complete koshirae (sword mounting). This exceptional piece depicts a powerful ascending dragon (昇龍 — shoryu) rendered in high relief with remarkable detail — scales, claws, horns, and coiling body are all clearly defined, with traces of original gilt highlighting remaining on key areas of the design.
The reverse shows intact retention pins (根 — ne), confirming this is a genuine antique menuki rather than a decorative reproduction.
Item Details:

Type: Large Menuki (大目貫) — Japanese sword handle fitting
Design: Ascending dragon (昇龍 / Ryu)
Material: Bronze with gilt (金色) highlights
Length: approx. 5.0 cm
Retention pins (根) present on reverse
No box or certificate

Condition:
Surface patina and minor verdigris consistent with age. Gilt highlights partially remaining. Retention pins intact. Please refer to all photographs carefully before bidding. Sold as antique — as found condition.
Period: Estimated Edo period (1603–1868)
Shipping: Carefully packed and shipped from Japan with full tracking.