Late nineteenth century stag antler kiseruzutsu. Samurai amongst rocks.

A late nineteenth century stag antler kiseruzutsu showing Samurai amongst rocks.

This finely carved kiseruzutsu, or pipe case was produced in Japan in the latter part of the nineteenth century and is of the Meiji Period (1868 – 1912). It shows Samurai rising through a landscape to attack. It is carved from stag antler, a resistant and resilient material and has a pull top. It is part of a group known as sagemono – items worn suspended from the broad band of fabric known as the obi, worn round the waist to fasten the kimono. These items were generally suspended from cords and held in place by netsuke.

This fine and interesting stag antler pipe case is 22.5 cm long, 2.5 cm wide and 2 cm deep. (Measurements approximate). It is in excellent condition, showing light wear appropriate to its age and substance. It has no damage and no restoration.