NihontoWatchNihontoWatchThe pair of antique menuki by Kono Akiyoshi (河野 明義), certified NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon, depicts two finely modeled insects—likely crickets or ground beetles—rendered with exceptional precision and naturalism. Each insect displays a delicately textured carapace, elegantly curved antennae, and sharply defined legs, all executed in the refined kinko style characteristic of the Kono School, known for its meticulous attention to natural subjects and superb metal-surface treatment. The motif of insects, especially crickets (koorogi), carries deep cultural symbolism in Japanese aesthetics: they evoke the quiet beauty of autumn, the sensitivity of classical poetry, and the concept of perseverance expressed in their persistent chirping. For a samurai, choosing such menuki could signify an appreciation of subtle, introspective symbolism rather than overtly martial imagery; the theme reflects inner discipline, emotional refinement, and a cultivated awareness of nature’s transient beauty—qualities highly valued in Edo-period warrior culture. The craftsmanship, style, and documented lineage suggest a late Edo period origin, fully aligned with the artistic traditions of the Kono School and the known work of Akiyoshi (明義). R 37,6 mm x 11,0 mm x 6,2 mm 2,4 g
Certificate reading — 銘 明義
NihontoWatchOffered by Nihonto Art
2 on the market
Aizu Akiyoshi
Edo
Signed
Tokuho (NBTHK)
Iron-tsuba · Mutsu · around 1670
2 pieces on the market now
Where Akiyoshi stands among comparable artisans: across all of nihontō, and within tradition, era, and period. The tiers (Foremost · Leading · Major · Notable) weigh official designations from the NBTHK and Japan's Agency for Cultural Affairs, together with historical honors of lasting repute such as the Sansaku and Meibutsu-chō.
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Iron-tsuba · Mutsu
6 pieces on the market now
| Smith | Era | Designated |
|---|---|---|
| Akiyoshi明義 | 1670 | 1 |
A Hozon-certified fitting of notably superior craftsmanship and condition, often with signature or workmanship of high reference value.
The NBTHK (Nihon Bijutsu Tōken Hozon Kyōkai, the Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords) is a public-interest incorporated foundation founded in 1948 and supervised by Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs (Bunkachō); it is based at the Japanese Sword Museum in Tokyo. Its expert panels physically examine each submitted work (shinsa) and issue a certificate (kanteishō) ranking it by artistic and historical merit. NBTHK papers are the most widely recognized standard of authentication for Japanese swords and fittings.
NBTHK official site14-day return window in original/unused condition; antique items (swords, menuki, tsuba and similar) are expressly excluded from exchange; EU consumers retain a 14-day cancellation right; refunds within 10 business days of approval.
€2,350