Edo Period Kura and Abumi. These Kura ( a saddle used by the Samurai class) and Abumi ( military-style Samurai stirrups ) are fine examples of the artisan workmanship of the Edo period aesthetics merging the arts of culture and war. The Bushido code, an idealized code of behavior, formalized this way of life that had coalesced in a time of isolation from external forces in Japan. The Kura is marked with the mon, the family crest of a fan, and a single barred circle is attributed to the Satake clan and the Abumi made of iron retains silver design elements of mist or wind and, cherry blossoms. A Ronin or masterless samurai would not have been afforded these ties to the clan, castle, and lord. Inscribed and imprinted on the bottom of the Kura are a date and signature character of the proud maker. The Kura shows both wear of use and professional care to maintain its use and appearance. The Abumi show age and wear, and a loss of the lacquered inlays is noted as evidence of vermillion red transfer can be seen on the inner portions.

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Provenance: A Private Collection

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Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@scottdanielsauction.com. Any condition statement is given as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion, and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Scott Daniel’s Auction shall have no responsibility for any error or omission. The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging.