🎎 Antique Japanese Koma Spinning Top – Mid-Showa Period | Japan Antique Roadshow
🎎 This authentic Japanese koma (spinning top) is a classic example of old-world children's play in Japan, crafted with both charm and rugged utility. Featuring a hardwood body fitted with an iron spindle and an iron perimeter ring, this piece was designed for the competitive game of battling tops — where players would collide their koma in spirited contests of skill and strength.
The iron ring is secured with two hand-driven nails, one of which was hammered in slightly off-angle, resulting in a charming crack along the wooden core. This impromptu repair—perhaps done quickly by a young owner eager to return to play—only adds to its story and character. The ring itself sits slightly off-axis, a subtle imperfection that hints at many years of robust use. Though the surface shows considerable wear, oxidation, and signs of play, the top remains structurally sound. A string is not included.
📏 Approximate dimensions:
• Weight: 150 grams
• Diameter (top): 7.7 cm
• Total length (spindle): 6 cm
• Materials: Wood core with iron spindle and iron battle ring
• Condition: Heavy wear, rust, surface cracks, and dents; stable and sound; for display and collection
This piece likely dates to the mid-Showa period (circa 1950s–1970s), though its traditional construction could place its origins slightly earlier. (The Showa period spanned 1926 to 1989.)
Curated in Shizuoka City by Kurt Bell, this koma offers a deeply nostalgic glimpse into the vibrant world of Japan's postwar childhood culture—simple toys carrying rich, enduring stories.
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- Quality is guaranteed. If there is a print error or visible quality issue, we'll replace or refund it.
- Because the products are made to order, we do not accept general returns or sizing-related returns.