Blade and Mounting for a Sword (Katana)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This sword mounting is made of silver decorated in various metals with a design of waves, fish, and aquatic plants. The edge of the hilt and scabbard are wrought with a design that represents bamboo. The maker, Iwamoto Kansai (岩本寛斎, active 19th century), was a student of the eighth and last master of the famous Edo-based Iwamoto School of sword fittings makers.

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