A high grade Japanese Kura samurai saddle detailed in high relief lacquer. The maewa (front arched plate) and shizuwa (rear arched plate) display a lacquer relief carp climbing a waterfall motif. The maewa and shizuwa are connected by two igi (contoured side bands). The igi rest on either side of the horse's spine and serve as the under frame for the leather seat (basen or kura tsubo) and are slotted for stirrup straps (chikara-gawa or gekiso) to pass through. Mounted on custom stand. Signed Kitagawa, calligraphy dating 1642.

18th c. Edo Period (1868-1912)

Dimensions: 16 1/2" x 14 1/4" x 12" H (18" H on stand)