Blade and Mounting for a Short Sword (<i>Wakizashi</i>)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The fittings of this mounting are decorated with images of old coins, an auspicious symbol. The maker created the ribbed effect on the scabbard by coiling a strong around it, coating it with lacquer, then removing the string before the lacquer was completely dry. The method results in fine striations that appear to have been carved. The wide tip of the scabbard, referred to as denchū-kojiri or omeshi-kojiri, echoes a style used in equestrian sports of earlier periods, particularly falconry and the hunt.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.

Metropolitan Museum of Art