"Katana Ornament Called Menuki In The Shape Of A Lobster - Japan - Meiji Period (1603-1868) "
Katana Ornament Called Menuki In The Shape Of A Lobster Japan, Meiji period (1603-1868)
Copper alloy and gilded copper
H. 1.4 cm, length 5.1 cm
Often depicted with a hemmed tail, this menuki is a full-length lobster - zarigani in Japanese - with many naturalistic details. The antennae are particularly long and finely detailed.
A symbol of longevity and peace, the lobster has a back that man can only wish for: to reach such an old age that its body will be curved like that of the crustacean.
The lobster is also associated with friendship. So this menuki could also adorn a sword that had been given as a gift to mark a new friendship or as a symbol of loyalty.
Text and photos © FCP CORIDON
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