Product Details

This is a Hannya or Oni-inspired demon mask. Made of Brass. Weighs 2.65 g Estimated to be from the Edo Period 1700-1868. The menuki are the decorative metal ornaments the are woven under the tsuka-ito (handle wrapping). These ornaments were originally made to hide the mekugi pins that secure the tsuka to the tang of the blade. Demon-faced menuki usually feature an oni (ogre/demon) with horns and fangs or a hannya (a vengeful female demon utilized in Noh theater). They were chosen to instill fear in enemies or bring the wearer luck in slaying evil spirits.