Sword-Hilt Collar and Pommel (Fuchigashira)
Inscribed by Ishiguro Koreyoshi Japanese
Not on view
A fuchigashira is a pair of matching sword fittings comprising the fuchi (collar at the base of the grip of the sword hilt) and kashira (pommel cap at the end of a sword hilt). The design features a legendary Chinese character, Jurōjin (Shou Laoren in Chinese), revered in Japan as one of the Seven Gods of Happiness and Good Fortune. He is usually represented under a great pine tree as a white-haired and bearded old man, carrying a tall staff and accompanied by a deer, all symbols of the blessings of longevity.
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.