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Antique Japanese Bamboo Kayakuire-Powder Flask , Edo Period.

$1,772.18
£1,328.36
€1,500
CA$2,434.67
A$2,718.08
CHF 1,424.23
MX$33,272
NOK 18,087.79
SEK 17,054.49
DKK 11,418.55
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About the Item

This artifact is an antique Kayakuire (火薬入れ), or gunpowder flask, a fascinating example of traditional Japanese craftsmanship. In feudal Japan, gunpowder flasks were essential accessories for samurai and matchlock riflemen (teppō ashigaru), serving as functional tools for carrying and dispensing gunpowder during military campaigns and hunting. These flasks were meticulously crafted using a variety of materials such as wood, bamboo, horn, and even metal, showcasing the refined artistry and ingenuity of Japanese artisans. This particular Kayakuire is fashioned from bamboo, a material highly regarded in Japan for its resilience, lightness, and symbolic connection to strength and flexibility. The flask is adorned with a boxwood nozzle and stopper, a testament to the attention to detail and the blending of functionality with aesthetic appeal. Boxwood, known for its durability and smooth texture, was an ideal choice for components requiring precision, ensuring the stopper and nozzle operated seamlessly. Traditionally, such flasks were not merely utilitarian objects but also personal items reflecting the status, taste, and identity of their owner. This Kayakuire was designed to be worn tucked into the belt of a kimono (obi), allowing easy access while adding a touch of elegance to the wearer’s attire. The portability and design of the flask highlight the thoughtful integration of practical needs with the Japanese aesthetic principles of simplicity and harmony. The flask’s bamboo body and handcrafted details suggest it was likely created by a skilled artisan familiar with both woodworking and metalwork techniques, reflecting the era's technological sophistication. As an antique, it offers a glimpse into the daily lives and martial practices of Japan’s past, making it not only a functional item but also a piece of historical and cultural significance. Collectors and enthusiasts of Japanese antiquities treasure such pieces for their artistry, historical value, and the stories they carry of a bygone era.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 1.19 in (3 cm)Width: 1.97 in (5 cm)Depth: 10.24 in (26 cm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    -
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses.
  • Seller Location:
    Leuven , BE
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 60291stDibs: LU3301146041172

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