Very fine Branch of Plum Kogai - NBTHK certificate - Japan - Edo Period (1600-1868)

Antique Japanese Samurai Kogai – Edo Period – Shakudo Nanako Ground with Plum Branch – NBTHK Hozon Tosogu Certificate

An exceptional Japanese samurai kogai, dating from the Edo period (1603–1868), featuring a beautifully executed plum branch decoration in shakudo, enhanced with gold and silver details. This refined sword fitting is accompanied by an official NBTHK Hozon Tosogu certificate, a particularly desirable feature for collectors, especially as certified kogai are less commonly encountered than many other categories of Japanese sword fittings.

Description and Artistic Merits

This elegant kogai exemplifies the sophisticated metalworking traditions associated with Japanese samurai sword mountings. Its restrained, elongated form provides an ideal setting for the delicate floral composition, where technical precision and understated elegance take precedence over excessive ornamentation.

The surface is decorated with a finely textured shakudo nanako ground, consisting of a dense pattern of minute, regularly arranged stippled dots. This traditional Japanese metalworking technique creates a subtle, richly textured background that contrasts beautifully with the applied decoration.

The principal motif is a graceful branch of plum blossom, rendered in shakudo using the suemon technique, in which decorative elements are applied to the surface. The composition is further enriched with gold and silver colouring, introducing delicate tonal contrasts and a refined interplay of precious-metal accents against the dark, lustrous ground.

The plum blossom holds a particularly significant place in Japanese art and culture. As one of the earliest flowers to bloom at the end of winter, it is traditionally associated with resilience, perseverance, renewal and the arrival of spring. Its inclusion on a samurai sword fitting adds a poetic dimension to this otherwise functional object, reflecting the appreciation of nature and symbolism that characterises much of Japanese decorative art.

The quality of the work lies in the careful balance between the textured background, the sculptural relief of the applied branch and the subtle metallic highlights. The overall effect is sophisticated and harmonious, demonstrating the skill required to transform a practical sword accessory into a miniature work of art.

Material and Decorative Techniques

Shakudo: A traditional Japanese copper-gold alloy, valued for its characteristic dark, patinated appearance.

Nanako ground: Finely stippled decoration composed of minute, closely spaced dots, a technique requiring considerable precision and patience.

Suemon decoration: Applied metal ornamentation, here used to create the plum branch motif.

Gold and silver detailing: Delicate metallic highlights that enhance the composition and provide contrast against the dark shakudo surface.

NBTHK Certificate of Authentication

This kogai is accompanied by a certificate issued by the Nihon Bijutsu Token Hozon Kyokai (NBTHK), the Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords, dated 24 February 2010, with certificate number 459920.

The certificate identifies the object as follows:

Object: Kogai (Japanese sword accessory)

Subject: One-branch plum design (Ichie Ume-zu)

Signature: Mumei (unsigned)

Attribution: Kyoto metalwork

Ground: Shakudo nanako

Decoration: Shakudo applied ornamentation, with gold and silver colouring

Certification: Hozon Tosogu (Sword Fitting Worthy of Preservation)

Date of certificate: 24 February 2010

Certificate number: 459920

The certificate states that the object was examined by the association and judged worthy of preservation as a Japanese sword fitting. It provides valuable documentary support for the identification and collectability of the piece.

The designation Hozon Tosogu is an important distinction within the NBTHK certification system, recognising sword fittings considered worthy of preservation. The certificate should accompany the kogai as an integral part of the offering.

The document also describes the piece as unsigned (mumei) and refers to Kyoto metalwork. This is consistent with the refined decorative tradition represented by the object, without assigning it to a specific named craftsman.

Dimensions

Length: 20.8 cm
Width: 1.2 cm
Thickness: 0.4 cm
Weight : 36 gr

Period and Classification

Period: Edo period (1603–1868), as attributed

Country of origin: Japan

Object type: Kogai, a traditional samurai sword accessory

Metal and decoration: Shakudo nanako ground, applied shakudo plum branch, gold and silver detailing

Documentation: NBTHK Hozon Tosogu certificate, No. 459920

A Collectible Example of Japanese Sword-Mounting Art

Combining an elegant natural motif, a technically demanding nanako ground, refined precious-metal decoration and formal NBTHK certification, this kogai offers considerable appeal to collectors of Japanese arms and armour, samurai culture, tosogu and traditional Japanese metalwork.

Its understated sophistication and carefully balanced design make it a particularly attractive example of the Japanese appreciation for subtle detail, symbolism and craftsmanship. The accompanying certificate further enhances its documentary interest and makes this a compelling addition to a specialised collection of Japanese sword fittings.

Packing and Shipping: Professional packing and shipping will be arranged with the utmost care. The kogai and its accompanying certificate will be securely protected using appropriate materials to ensure safe transit and preservation of this fine collectible object.