Collectible, Or Just Weird?

[Alan F]

Wasn't sure where to post this, or whether to post it at all.

Got these from Aoi Art (home of the "scratch-n-dent" special) last year.

 

They are silver mekugi-nuki (mekugi hammers) with a kao supposedly by "Oni".

Anyone ever seen anything like these? I suspected that there might have been a limited series of these made. Perhaps these are just two of a dozen themes, or so.

One is meant to represent the Fox spirit. The other looks like something that only a biker with many tattoos (a Harley rider) would admire.

 

Difficult to photograph.

 

 

 

Pietro

 

P.S. Not that there is anything wrong with tattoos or Harleys (or bikers).

[John A Stuart]

Nice little addendums for the main event. John

[Dr Fox]

Glad you decided to post. I think they are excellent little pieces.

I will have to keep an eye out in future, I would buy such as these, and would delight in using same.

Thank you for sharing.

[Dr Fox]

Pietro

To follow up on the 'theme' of your nuki.

Yes the fox has an important place in folklore, and so does the skull!

And rather luckily in your case, there is a nice link for them together.

A kitsune may take on human form, an ability learned when it reaches a certain age—usually 100 years, although some tales say 50.  As a common prerequisite for the transformation, the fox must place reeds, a broad leaf, or a skull over its head.

 

The skull also has an important place in Japanese tattoo's, going far back in time.

Hope this brings a little more pleasure to your items!