Menuki of Children at Play Japanese, Edo period (18th–19th century) Shakudō with gold and silver details Samurai Sword Ornament LS 072

Antique Japanese Menuki Children at Play Edo Period

A finely worked pair of Japanese sword menuki depicting children at play, rendered in high relief with lively expressions and varied poses. The figures are shown reclining and interacting, a common theme associated with innocence, joy, and auspicious domestic harmony in Edo period decorative arts.

The surface shows mixed metal tones with dark patination accented by warmer highlights, suggesting traditional soft metal work with applied detailing. The carving emphasizes rounded faces, animated gestures, and layered garments, giving the group a sense of movement and narrative rather than strict symmetry.

Children at play is a well established motif in Japanese fittings and netsuke, often symbolizing prosperity, continuity of the family line, and the wish for a peaceful, abundant future. On sword furniture, such imagery provided a quiet counterpoint to the martial function of the weapon.

The backs show the expected hollowed construction and attachment apertures consistent with traditional menuki mounting beneath the tsuka wrapping.

Material appears to be mixed metal
Period Edo
Configuration matched pair
Condition age appropriate wear and patina with no modern alterations observed

Dimensions
Length approximately 1.75 inches each
Please refer to photos for exact scale and surface detail

A charming and character rich pair suitable for collectors of Japanese sword fittings or as study pieces illustrating genre scenes in Edo period metalwork.

LS 072