A Shôunsai Fuchi-Kashira (松雲斎)

A remarkable fuchi-kashira by Shôunsai (Tani Motosada), one of the more accomplished metalsmith signatures of the early Edo period. The pair is worked in polished shibuichi – an alloy prized for its subtle grey-silver patina – and depicts the three sworn brothers of the “Records of the Three Kingdoms”: Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei. The carving is extraordinarily fine, each face individually characterised, the armour and robes rendered with a depth of relief that rewards close examination.

Liu Bei (161-223) was the warlord of the late Eastern Han dynasty who founded the state of Shu Han and ruled as its first emperor. He and his brothers Guan Yu and Zhang Fei are among the most celebrated figures in Chinese history and literature, their bond symbolising loyalty and brotherhood. The choice of subject reflects the strong influence of Chinese classical culture on Edo-period Japanese metalwork – a popular theme among the most accomplished craftsmen of the time.

Awarded NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon, confirming both the attribution and the quality of the work. Housed in a fitted wooden storage box. A piece that holds its own against far more famous names.