Known for a sword with the Later Han era name Chuhei (184–189) in gold inlay. According to the Tokyo National Museum, the blade was made in China in the 2nd century and its fittings were added in the archipelago in the 4th century.
Finds & research
The clay burial yielded the gold-inlaid Chūhei-inscribed sword with a flower-shaped pommel, swords with house-shaped pommels, stone bracelets, and other objects. The assemblage was designated a National Treasure in 2017.
Two views on the occupant
Archaeological view
An approximately 130m keyhole mound at Ichinomoto, Tenri, built in the latter half of the Early Kofun period. A 1961 excavation uncovered a clay burial in the rear and yielded swords with house-shaped pommels and the gold-inlaid Chūhei-inscribed sword.
Imperial Household Agency view
This is not an IHA mausoleum, and no historic-site designation for the mound itself has been confirmed. The excavated assemblage held by the Tokyo National Museum is a National Treasure.
Field notes
The National Treasure assemblage is held by the Tokyo National Museum. Because displays rotate, check the museum schedule before visiting.