Fuchi Kashira - Japan, Edo Period (1603-1868)

FUCHI KASHIRA 
Japan, Edo period (1603-1868) 
Copper, gold and silver 
H. 1.1 ; L. 3.6 ; W. 2 cm 
 
This fuchi and kashira, two elements of the katana scabbard, are made of black lacquered copper with relief decoration enhanced by gold details.  
The Kashira represents the oni Hannya - an evil spirit of Japanese folklore, a female demon, he embodies suffering, anger and hatred; his left hand rests on the shoulder of the samurai Ômori Hikoschichi, who was a busho, Japanese military commander of Seiwa-Genji, Minamoto clan. 
The Fuchi represents on one side a hilly landscape with flowers enhanced with gold and silver, on the other a fan with a gold handle is placed on a naginata. 
 
 
Text and photos © FCP CORIDON