A jumonji yari (polearm)


Edo period (1615-1868), probably late 18th/early 19th centuryThe very long blade of sanzaku-zukuri form with a red-lacquered ridge on the flat side, a double dragon-tail cross piece extending horizontally from the shaft; the tsuka (hilt) of juhi mitateai lacquered wood, imitating pine bark, with a red lacquered ridge on either side; the shaft of wood, partly lacquered red, with an iron bridge post finial and gilt metal fittings. The blade: 61.5cm (24¼in) long, total length: 230.5cm (90¾in).