Japanese Menuki Pair Sword Fitting Heian Flute Player & Thief Edo period (18th–19th) Gilt LS194 Sake His right hand is raised

His right hand is raised in a teaching gesture while the left rests at the lap

This vase is 5 7/8" tall by 3" in diameter (15 x 7

While the insert references Raku

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

The figure is powerfully modeled with a muscular human torso

Japanese Menuki Pair Sword Fitting Heian Flute Player & Thief Edo period (18th–19th) Gilt LS194 Sake His right hand is raisedThis 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