Japanese Menuki Pair Sword Fitting Heian Flute Player & Thief Edo period (18th–19th) Gilt LS194 Sake Colors retain good intensity particularly

Colors retain good intensity particularly in the soldier figures and foliage

This is a professional grade signed sashimi/sushi chef's yanagiba knife from the mid to late 20th century

While the insert references Raku

sits well on the stand (included)

with exception of limited past signs of use and some minor restoration

Japanese Menuki Pair Sword Fitting Heian Flute Player & Thief Edo period (18th–19th) Gilt LS194 Sake Colors retain good intensity particularlyThis matched pair of menuki presents a vivid narrative scene drawn from a well known Heian era tale. One figure, a flute player in richly patterned robes and tall cap, walks in calm dignity while playing his instrument. The second figure, depicted in shorter garments with weapon at his side, leans forward in motion, representing a thief trailing behind him. According to the story, the thief intended to rob the musician but was overcome by the beauty