NihontoWatchNihontoWatchThis item is an antique Kougai (笄), a traditional hair ornament used by Samurai to arrange or secure their hairstyles. It was typically stored in a special slot on the scabbard called the Kougai-hitsu. The theme of this Kougai is Chikubai-zu (竹梅図), a design that depicts bamboo and plum blossoms—two of the three auspicious motifs known as Sho-Chiku-Bai (松竹梅, pine, bamboo, and plum). In Japanese culture, this pattern symbolizes perseverance and renewal: bamboo represents strength and resilience, as it bends without breaking even in strong winds, while plum blossoms bloom in the cold of late winter, heralding the coming of spring. Together, they express the virtues of endurance, vitality, and hope for good fortune. Traditional techniques are used in this piece, including Nanakoji (魚々子地), a method of making small dot patterns on the surface that look like fish eggs, Takabori (高彫), a deep carving technique that makes the design stand out in a three-dimensional way; and Kin-iroe (金色絵), a technique where gold is added to decorate the carved parts.
NihontoWatchOffered by Samurai Museum
Edo
Unsigned
As written by the shop
We could not find an authenticity certificate on the seller’s listing. Japanese swords and fittings are normally papered by the NBTHK (or the NTHK). Without one, the attribution is the seller’s own assessment and has not been independently verified — treat it with caution and ask the dealer about certification before buying.
Returns/exchanges limited to defects caused by shipping (except willful misconduct or gross negligence by the company); customers must contact within 72 hours of receiving the product.
¥50,000