"Yari saya" with feathers · Japan · ID: 3039607
not available anymore
Size
H: 27,5 cm
H: 10.8 inch
Description
wooden core with disc-shaped projecting middle part, coated with red fabric which is covered with reddish-brown feathers, on cylindrical base for insertion of the lance blade, slightly dam., feathers missing in parts;
the Japanese word for scabbard of a sword or knife is “saya”. They were put on top of “yari”, a particular type of spear with a very long shaft as well.
“Yari saya” were used to dramatic effect during long processions undertaken by the local “daimyo” as required by the Tokugawa “shogun”, when they moved from their estates to the captial of Edo and back again. There was an impressive variety of “saya” shapes.