"Carved Wooden Maetate Depicting A Pair Of Tongs - Edo Period (1603 - 1868)."
JAPAN - Edo Period (1603-1868). Carved and finely lacquered wooden maetate depicting a large pair of blacksmith's tongs. When attached to the kabuto, they also resemble a long pair of horns. Dimensions: 35 x 25 x 3.5 cm. The kabuto is not included with the maetate. Notes: Originating from the world of blacksmiths, tongs directly evoke the forging of weapons, and thus the idea that the sword is the soul of the warrior. On certain mon (decorative symbols) or armor and tsuba (guard decorations), tongs suggest mastery of fire and metal, the ability to shape one's own strength and discipline oneself as one shapes a blade. They can also suggest strength, rigor, and determination, fundamental virtues of samurai ethics.