East Asia, Japan, Edo period, ca. 1603 to 1868 CE. A fine and large example of a forged-iron grapping hook called a kaginawa (kagi meaning "hook," and nawa meaning "rope") with a lengthy rod-form body, an integral rope hook with a petite lemniscate loop on one end, and four arching hooks with pointed tips on the other. Kaginawa like this example were used by the samurai class and foot soldiers during the feudal era of Japan and were even reportedly a useful tool for the stealthy ninja. A length of rope attached to the loop end would afford the climber with increased grip, and the hooks could be used as a makeshift weapon in emergency situations. Size: 7.8" W x 15.625" H (19.8 cm x 39.7 cm)

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA, acquired in September 2006; ex-private Buenos Aires, Argentina collection

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#152035

Original rope missing as shown. Slight bending to overall form of rope loop, body, and some hooks, with light encrustations within some recessed areas, and minor pitting, otherwise intact and very good. Nice patina throughout.