Japanese Meiji Wood, Iron, Leather & Brass Kusarigama

East Asia, Japan, Meiji period, ca. 1868 to 1912 CE. An intimidating two-handed weapon known as a kusarigama (also kusari-gama, literally "chain scythe") with a forged-iron sickle blade extending to one side of a wooden handle wrapped with leather, iron panels, and iron studs. The top of the cylindrical end cap is decorated with a studded brass applique bearing stamped floral motifs. A thick iron ring through a perforation in the sickle secures a lengthy iron chain with a studded iron weight called a fundo. Developed during the Muromachi period (ca. 1336 to 1573), the kusarigama could be used for directly strikes with the fundo, entangling an adversary's limbs, and ensuring a quick kill with the sickle blade. Size (handle & sickle): 4.5" W x 17.6" H (11.4 cm x 44.7 cm); (chain) 59.9" L (152.1 cm); (full) 77.4" L (196.6 cm).

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA, acquired in January 2006; ex-private Portland, Oregon, USA collection

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#152034 Dimensions: Condition Report: Minor abrasions and pitting to leather handle wrap, some iron components, and chain weight, otherwise intact and very good. Nice patina throughout.