A Tale of Humility and Dragons: The Legend of Choryo and Kosekiko

A Tale of Humility and Dragons: The Legend of Choryo and Kosekiko This masterful Edo-period fuchi-kashira set brings a legendary tale of patience, respect, and martial strategy to life! The Legend: The fuchi (collar) captures the dramatic moment the hero Choryo (Zhang Liang) wades into churning, perilous waters to offer a retrieved shoe to a dragon. On the kashira (pommel cap), the enigmatic old man Kosekiko (Huang Shigong) is depicted riding above. According to ancient lore, Kosekiko intentionally dropped his shoe into the river to test Choryo’s humility. Because Choryo retrieved it without anger, he was gifted a scroll of supreme military strategy that helped found the Han Dynasty. The Craftsmanship: The artisan utilized an elegant oborogin (shibuichi) alloy ground, elevating the dynamic scene with exquisite high-relief carving (takabori) and brilliant gold and mixed-metal inlays (iroe). The deeply sculpted, turbulent waves beautifully frame the intricate, expressive details of the figures and the mystical beast. The Maker: The fuchi is clearly signed 東都於愛宕下 勝政作 (Toto ni oite Atagoshita Katsumasa saku), translating to "Made by Katsumasa below Mt. Atago in the Eastern Capital [Edo]". The Provenance: The exceptional artistry and historical value of this set are officially recognized by an accompanying NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon (Especially Worthy of Preservation) certificate, issued in Showa 54 (1979). A truly museum-quality treasure of samurai metalwork! NBTHK Tokubetsu Kicho Token (Green).