Sword: metal (iron), wood. Sword Holder: cloth: elm-bark fiber; cotton appliqué and embroideryexpand_more
The John R. Van Derlip Fund and the Mary Griggs Burke Endowment Fund established by the Mary Livingston Griggs and Mary Griggs Burke Foundation; purchase from the Thomas Murray Collectionexpand_more 2019.20.11a, b
The Ainu did not themselves manufacture steel; they obtained their blades through trade with the Japanese. Swords (emushi) were therefore rare and valued for social and ceremonial functions. Some swords were refitted with a new wood scabbard carved by Ainu men; here the sheath is covered with decorated metal pieces.
Contrary to the Japanese custom in the early modern period of carrying swords through the sash, an Ainu man used a fabric sword holder (emushi-at). Made by his wife or close female relative, the holder allowed the man to carry his sword across the back or over the shoulder.
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
Does something look wrong with this image? Let us know