The John Bannister Collection - D-Day and Militaria
Lot 2299c:
Description
This exquisite menuki, a highly decorative ornamental piece from a Japanese sword (katana, wakizashi, or tanto), likely dating from the late Edo period (1603-1868) or Meiji period (1868-1912). Crafted from a dark metal alloy—likely shibuichi (copper and silver) or patinated copper/bronze—the item features a captivating design of two stylized birds nestled amidst foliage. The birds, which may represent sparrows (suzume), are highlighted with gilding (gold wash) to create a striking contrast against the dark patina of the underlying material, a classic technique in tosogu (sword fitting) craftsmanship. The overall design suggests naturalistic elegance, a popular aesthetic in later Japanese art. The reverse shows a flat profile with a central hole/pin remnant, and some visible verdigris (blue-green corrosion) indicating the copper content in the alloy. The visible wear on the high points of the gilding and the rich patina are consistent with age and having been mounted on a sword hilt, or tsuka. Condition is good overall, exhibiting expected patination, wear to the gold wash, and minor surface corrosion on the reverse. Measures 1.5” long x .5” tall and 3/16” deep. Please see photos.
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