Shakudo. Japan, 19th cent.
Pair of menuki depicting kamakiri. In Japan this insect, in Latin Mantis religiosa, is a symbol of fighting spirit and courage, which is why this motif is featured in sword guards. The kamakiri were also called toro genannt, the menuki are shown in almost black shakudo alloy, cast and engraved; the eyes accentuated by gilding.
LENGTHS 3,6 CM
From a Hungarian collection