The Cunningham collection · S-1–S-2
To contain damage and keep flames from spreading, Edo-period hikeshi (firemen) would knock down existing structures using a tobikuchi to quickly pull down screens and siding, often even the supporting beams. Comprised of the homeless, the unemployed, former criminals, and so on, the hikeshi were renowned for getting into street brawls when they weren't busy fighting fires. The tobikuchi frequently served a convenient improvised self-defense weapon in such disputes. Copyright © 2009. Please do not use the photographs or the text on this site without permission. (Image use must include the statement: "Copyright © 2009. Photograph by Don Cunningham.")
— Don Cunningham, introduction to the catalogue pageSource A28
S-1
This late Edo-period or Meiji-era tobikuchi is solid iron. Unlike the jutte, the long flat kagi was used to hook the tobikuchi in the obi.Source A28
Catalogue text and photographs by Don Cunningham. Copyright © 2009. Photograph by Don Cunningham.
S-2
This Edo-period tobikuchi is wood with several iron bands. The forged iron head is engraved with a signature, probably the original owner's name.Source A28
Catalogue text and photographs by Don Cunningham. Copyright © 2009. Photograph by Don Cunningham.