Description

This kozuka features a Gankutsu Daruma-zu (岩窟達磨図), or “Daruma in a Cave” design. It is made of shibuichi (四分一), a traditional Japanese alloy composed primarily of copper and silver. According to the NBTHK appraisal, this tsuba has been attributed to the Mito school. The school flourished in the Mito domain (today’s Ibaraki Prefecture) during the Edo period and was known for its refined carving, detailed designs, and skillful use of metal inlay. Daruma Daishi, better known outside Japan as Bodhidharma, was a Buddhist monk traditionally regarded as the founder of Chan Buddhism in China, which later developed into Zen Buddhism in Japan. He is especially associated with the practice of menpeki (面壁), or meditation while facing a wall. According to Buddhist tradition, Daruma meditated for nine years in a cave near Shaolin Temple on Mount Song in China. This cave is known in Japan as Daruma-dō (達磨洞, “Daruma Cave”). The celebrated episode is called Menpeki Kunen (面壁九年), meaning “nine years of wall-facing meditation.” The cave setting depicted on this kozuka refers to this famous period of intense spiritual training. Daruma’s stern expression does not represent anger toward others. Rather, it symbolizes his struggle to overcome weakness, distraction, and doubt through unwavering spiritual discipline. Many legends arose around Daruma’s extraordinary endurance. Although their historical accuracy is uncertain, these stories helped establish him as a symbol of perseverance, resilience, and unwavering determination. In Japan, these qualities are also embodied by the familiar Daruma doll, which is associated with good fortune and the fulfillment of personal goals. Authentication Paper They authenticated the Kozuka on March 24h in the 8th year of Reiwa (2026). They appraised it as Hozon Tousougu, the Kozuka worth preserving for Japanese society.

Details from the shop

INCLUDED

Wooden box, NBTHK Hozon Certificate

Title

Gankutsu Daruma Zu

Authentication Paper

NBTHK Hozon Certificate (No.4025355)