Yari (fsy-4)
Here we have a small collection of yari suitable for display or restoration. These pieces vary in length and style and would be a great addition for anyone’s collection.
Yari
Yari, when mounted, measured anywhere from 3.3 to 20 feet (1-6 metres). The longer versions were called omi no yari while shorter ones were known as mochi or tae yari. The longest versions were carried by foot troops (ashigaru), while the samurai usually carried the shorter versions.
Yari are believed to have been derived from Chinese spears, and while they were present in early Japan's history they did not become popular until the 13th century. Originally warfare was a matter of ritual combat between the bushi; commoners were excluded. Two warriors would challenge each other via horseback archery and sword duels. However, Japanese ideas of warfare had to be radically rethought following the Mongol invasions of 1274 and 1281. The Mongols employed Chinese and Korean pikemen and spearmen who fought in tight formations, and who moved as one in large units. Polearms (including naginata and yari) subsequently became far more popular because of their greater range and piercing ability.
Yari overtook the popularity of the daikyu for the samurai, and were extensively used by foot troops (ashigaru). Swords were relegated to the role an of emergency sidearm. During the first part of the Muromachi Era (1336-1573), yari became the main weapon used in the guerrilla warfare of the period. During the second half of the Muromachi era Japan experienced a century of chaos and warfare following the Onin war. Military tactics shifted from cavalry to infantry, and thus placed even more emphasis on yari.
By the Edo period the yari had fallen into disuse. The greater emphasis on small-scale close quarters combat, and the convenience of swords (as opposed to long battlefield weapons), meant that polearms and archery lost their practical value. Yari were still produced during the Edo era, sometimes even by good swordsmiths; they were however mostly ceremonial weapons, with some serving as household defence weapons.
"Click on the pictures to view"
Full Length: 24 1/2 "
Nagasa : 10 5/8 "
Width: 30.5 mm "
Condition: x
Full Length: 22 3/4 "
Nagasa : 10 5/8 "
Width: 21.1 "
Condition: x
Full Length: 15 "
Nagasa : 6 "
Width: 21.2 "
Condition: x
Full Length: 8 1/2 "
Nagasa : 5 "
Width: 18.1 "
Condition: x
This sword is on consignment.
Order number for this item is : fsy-4
Email us if your interested in this item at Nihonto_Antiques@verizon.net
~SOLD~
