Artwork preview

Sword Pommel (Kashira)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The sword pommel, titled "Kashira" by its artist, is a two-part metal object. The top part is oval-shaped and dark brown with visible rust and gold inlays. It features a design that appears to be a figure riding a horse, moving to the right. The horse has a long tail and a detailed body, while the rider seems to be sitting astride, holding onto the horse. The bottom part is rectangular with rounded edges, also dark brown, and has an etched design on its surface. The design seems to consist of raised branches or vines. Both parts cast a shadow on a light grey background.

Artwork Details

Date
ca. 1615–1868
Medium
Iron, gold, copper-silver alloy (shibuichi)
Culture
Japanese
Dimensions
500 × 625 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette