| Iwamoto Konkan was one of the leading metalworkers of the Edo period, specializing in decorative sword fittings. He enjoyed painting, calligraphy, and haiku poetry, and was known for his refined and free-spirited character. He excelled in creating pictorial designs with high-relief carving and colored metal inlays, expressing poetic sentiment through his work. While following the tradition of the Yokoya school, he also studied the carving techniques of the Nara school, developing his own distinctive artistic style and leaving behind many outstanding works.This fuchigashira (a matching set of sword handle fittings) depicts a flock of thrushes (tsugumi) resting on the handle of a hoe and among the branches of plants. The birds are carved in high relief with colored metal inlays on a finely executed shakudo nanako surface. Their varied natural poses are skillfully captured, creating a charming and evocative autumn countryside scene. Konkan also produced works featuring the same subject of thrushes and a hoe during his early years. Two similar works are illustrated in Iwamoto Konkan by Kamiya Monichiro, published in 1960. Compared with these earlier works, the present piece reveals a greater level of artistic maturity through its refined carving techniques and harmonious use of colored metals. Depicting a simple countryside scene of thrushes resting in the fields with profound charm and rich poetic sentiment, this fuchigashira is an outstanding example of Iwamoto Konkan's mature artistry. Designated as Juyo Tosogu (Important Sword Fittings) at the 48th NBTHK Juyo Tosogu Shinsa in 2012. |
Search
