Satsuma Rebellion Wrap Question

[Justin Grant]

All-

 

I am reading the Satsuma Rebellion, and while a good read from a “Westernized” perspective on the conflict shortly after it happened, I have a question regarding the swords used during this conflict.

 

I have seen swords listed for sale that have “Satsuma Rebellion” wrap, and I wondered if this special style was solely for the conflict or a style used by the Satsuma Clan as a whole. In my reading, I understand that Satsuma had “Private Schools” for the study and practice of “war”, and thought this might be the reason for the special wraps, but I am just passing an uneducated guess into the fray.

 

What was the purpose of the wrap? What benefit was obtained from such a simple wrap? I am thinking it can’t be related solely to the functional aspect or utilitarian aspect, as some I have seen have very nice Tsuba that are nicely ornate.

 

I am not sure if this is a field of study for people, but I am hopeful that someone here has more insight into this area and can lift this burden from me :D

 

Thanks

 

Justin

[Baka Gaijin]

Good Afternoon Justin,

 

If you start looking into "Okkashi - To" as well as "Satsuma Rebellion Mounts" using the Search facility on the Forum, you will find a host of information pro & con.

 

Cheers

 

 

Malcolm