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🪵 ITEM DESCRIPTION
This listing is for a finely crafted pair of antique Japanese menuki, traditional ornamental sword fittings used beneath the tsuka wrapping of a Japanese sword.
The pair features two highly expressive mask designs: a Noh-style mask and a dramatic Oni (demon) mask.
Both pieces are executed in exceptionally detailed high-relief work on a dark metal ground, believed to be shakudo, with contrasting gold-colored details applied to the eyes, horns, facial ornaments, and other features. The different metal tones and deeply sculpted facial features give these very small pieces remarkable depth and character.
The reverse sides are particularly interesting. Each menuki retains its mounting fixture, and the backs show small attachment points corresponding to decorative elements on the front.
Most notably, the pair bears separate characters on the reverse that appear to read “光” and “理.” Together, these may be read “光理” (Mitsumasa).
The name Mitsumasa (光理) is historically associated with Gotō Jujō (後藤寿乗), the 12th main-line master of the Gotō school. However, this pair has not been professionally authenticated or attributed, and no guarantee is made that the signature is by Gotō Jujō. The signature and workmanship should be evaluated by the buyer based on the detailed photographs provided.
The menuki show age-related surface wear, patina, scratches, and wear to some of the gold-colored decoration, consistent with their apparent age and previous use. Please examine all photographs carefully, including the close-up photographs of the signatures and reverse construction.
A wooden presentation/storage box is included as shown in the mask
- Length: approx. 22.6 mm
- Width: approx. 14.8 mm
- Maximum thickness: approx. 3.8 mm
Oni mask
- Length: approx. 23.1 mm
- Width: approx. 15.0 mm
- Maximum thickness: approx. 3.5 mm
Total weight: approx. 8 g (0.28 oz) for the pair.
Measurements are approximate.
Age / Attribution
Believed to be an antique Japanese sword fitting.
The characters on the reverse appear to read 光理 (Mitsumasa). While this name is associated with Gotō Jujō, this attribution has not been professionally authenticated. Please consider the signature, workmanship, age, and school attribution as unverified unless independently confirmed.
Condition
Antique condition with age-related wear, patina, surface marks, scratches, and wear to the metal decoration.
No cleaning or polishing has been performed. The original surface and patina have been preserved.
Please review all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description and show the actual condition of the pieces.
📦 Shipping
The item will be carefully packed for safe delivery.
- Ships from the United States
- USPS Ground Advantage
- Handling time: 2–3 business days
- International shipping available where permitted
↩️ Returns
Returns accepted within 30 days of delivery.
The item must be returned in the same condition in which it was received. Please review all photographs and measurements carefully before purchasing.
