Mumei Waki Goto 脇後藤
Twelve Zodiac Animals Mitokoromo 十二支図三所物
TS014

  • Period: Edo Period

  • Materials: Shakudo Base and Nanoko Ground. Gold and Silver Iroe Inlay

  • Designation: Tokubetsu Hozon

  • Signature: Mumei Waki Goto 脇後藤

    • Kogai Dimensions: 21.3cm x 1.3cm

    • Kogai Dimensions: 9.6cm x 1.5cm

    • Menuki 1 Dimensions: 3.9cm x 1.5cm

    • Menuki 2 Dimensions: 3.9cm x 1.5cm

Price: ¥ 750,000

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Waki Goto Mitokoromono Set – Twelve Zodiac Animals

This refined mitokoromono set is the work of Waki Goto, a branch lineage of the prestigious Goto family active during the Edo period. The Waki Goto line was closely associated with the main Goto house and produced fittings of high technical quality, often intended for upper-class samurai and daimyō use. Their work is known for precise carving, well-controlled relief, and tasteful use of gold on shakudō grounds.

The present set consists of kozuka, kogai, and a pair of menuki, unified by a rare and highly appealing theme: the complete set of the Twelve Zodiac Animals (十二支), distributed thoughtfully across the fittings rather than concentrated on a single piece.

The fittings are executed on a shakudō ground, with finely worked surfaces and selective gold and copper inlay, consistent with orthodox Goto aesthetics. The animals are rendered in compact, sculptural relief, balancing charm with formality. An approach typical of Edo-period Goto work intended for daily wear rather than purely ceremonial mounts.

Zodiac Composition

  • Menuki (pair):
    One menuki depicts the Dragon and Tiger, while the other shows the Horse, Monkey, and Boar.

  • Kozuka:
    Decorated with the Ox, Rat, Snake, and Rabbit

  • Kogai:
    Rooster, Dog, and Goat—completing the full zodiac cycle across the set.

Bringing together all twelve zodiac animals within a single mitokoromono set is both iconographically rare and conceptually elegant, reflecting careful planning rather than later assembly. The consistency of material, workmanship, and theme strongly supports the integrity of the set as a unified work.

This is an excellent example of Edo-period Waki Goto craftsmanship, combining cultural symbolism, fine metalwork, and strong collectability. Equally suitable for a high-quality koshirae or as a standalone display set for a serious tosogu collection.