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Sword (13th century) and scabbard (18th century) with design of samurai writing a poem under cherry tree

Kagemitsu

Artwork Details

Sword (13th century) and scabbard (18th century) with design of samurai writing a poem under cherry tree
1299-1301
Kagemitsu
forged steel blade with wooden handle and scabbard
38 9/16 x 1 11/16 x 1 3/8 in. (98.0 x 4.3 x 3.5 cm)
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Frederic R. Smith
1973/2.85

Tags

Description

Subject Matter:

Long swords (tachi) were the most important belongings for samurai, almost as equal to their lives; as many tragic stories attest, samurai could commit suicide when his sword was taken, stolen, or lost.

Physical Description:

The sword is long and slightly curved; the metal smith's name is engraved on the metal handle.

Usage Rights:

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