A Kyo Kinko Dragon Fuchi Kashira
This This Kyo Kinko Dragon fuchi kashira set is crafted from shakudo with a fine nanako ground. Each piece features a finely carved golden dragon in high relief (takabori), using the kin kise technique, an older and demanding method of applying thin gold foil to enhance detail and brilliance.
The fuchi depicts a dragon emerging dynamically from stylized waves, while the kashira presents a counterpart dragon soaring through clouds. Notably, the dragon on the fuchi bears the sacred jewel (hoju) just behind its head, an iconographic detail often seen in the Goto school, though this work can be attributed to the Kyoto Kinko tradition. While clearly influenced by the Goto style, it is not a Goto piece itself, but rather the work of a Kyoto based workshop which would follow and emulate the Goto aesthetics.
The dragons are masterfully carved with rich detail and expressive relief. Their pupils are inlaid in shakudo or rather left blank to reveal the shakudo beneath, adding lifelike intensity to their gaze. An additional rare feature is the shitodome, or cord inserts, on the kashira. These are also made of shakudo, which is uncommon, as gilded copper is usually used.
The piece dates to the early to mid Edo period, and exemplifies the high level of craftsmanship and stylistic refinement characteristic of Kyoto Kinko artists who operated in the stylistic orbit of the prestigious Goto lineage.
This piece is a nice addition to a good Kinko collection but would also serve greatly to be mounted on a Koshirae.
Size:
Fuchi: 38 mm x 21 mm x 10 mm
Kashira: 33.2 mm x 12.1 mm x 9 mm
