Sword with Scabbard Mounts
Unknown Artist
Ancient Japanese swords and swords imported from Asian mainland in ancient times are classified on the basis of the interpretation of their pommels. The peculiarly shaped pommel of this sword bears resemblance to the top part (/tō) of an ancient Chinese gem (kei) and is thus referred to as keitō type.
Credit: Fletcher Fund, 1932
6th century
Iron, gilt copper, silver
86.4 cm
32.13.1a, b
Image and text © Metropolitan Museum of Art, 2025
Where you'll find this
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Permanent collection
