Katana - Wish-Granting Sceptre with Leaf Motif - Hairpin (Kogai 笄) Signed 'Naoyasu (直保)' with Two Pairs of Daisho Menuki (大小目貫) - Japan - Edo Period (1600-1868)

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【Product details】

This rare matching sword fitting set from the Edo period consists of one hairpin (kogai) and two pairs of menuki (for Katana and wakizashi).

The hairpin is made of shakudo nanako ground and decorated in high relief with the unusual motif of twin nyoi (wish-granting sceptres) accompanied by leaves in brass inlay. The reverse bears the signature of Naoyasu (直保).

Shakudō is a refined copper–gold alloy, prized for the deep black patina it develops, which provides a rich contrast to gold or brass inlay. Nanako (fish-roe ground) is a technique in which the chisel has a rounded point that is tapped into the surface, producing an even field of tiny circular grains. While there are chisels that can strike several grains at once, the finest examples are made by punching each grain individually. This so-called “single-grain nanako” is considered extremely difficult, and only a limited number of metalworkers were capable of achieving such precision.

The two pairs of menuki share the same design of double nyoi with brass-inlaid leaves, forming a complete matching ensemble with the signed kōgai. Although unsigned, the identical motif clearly links them to the set. Each piece comes preserved in its own paulownia wood storage box.

In Buddhist tradition, the nyoi symbolises the fulfilment of desires, authority, and wisdom, while the accompanying leaves represent growth and prosperity.

There are signs of age, including wear, small scratches, natural patina, and minor losses to the inlay. Please refer to the photographs for details.

Dimensions of Kogai: approx. H 20.6 cm W 1.2 cm D 0.8 cm
Dimensions of Manuki: approx. H 4-5.1 cm W 1.7 cm D 0.5 cm

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Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!