Intricate design found on ancient spear likely used in Yamato ritual

Asahi Shimbun

11-06-2025

A 3-D image of the spear through the X-ray of a CT scan (Provided by the Preservation and Utilization Council of 'Sacred Island of Okinoshima and Associated Sites in the Munakata Region')
MUNAKATA, Fukuoka Prefecture—Intricate decorative patterns were found on an iron spear tip from the late sixth century to early seventh century, underscoring the importance of Yamato Dynasty rituals on the sacred island of Okinoshima, researchers said.
An X-ray examination of the weapon, a designated national treasure, revealed elaborate designs covering its entire surface that had been hidden under a layer of rust, officials of Munakata Taisha shrine here confirmed on June 10.
The spear tip, about 30 centimeters long, was excavated on Okinoshima island, a World Heritage site, in Munakata, Fukuoka Prefecture, along with a treasure trove of other relics believed to date back to the late Kofun Period (third to seventh centuries).
Researchers said they believe the spear was made in Japan but had its origins on the Korean Peninsula.
They also said the Kinzogan forging method, in which metal is embedded in carved lines, was probably used to create the designs on the spear. The embedded material is still unknown, but they suspect it is gold.
Given the decorative patterns covering the entire surface, the spear was likely an offering to the gods, not an item for practical use, they said.
Okinoshima, an isolated island in the Genkainada sea, is where the goddess Munakata is said to be enshrined. The island was the site of rituals for marine safety conducted by the Yamato Dynasty for about 500 years.
'A highly advanced technique was used for creating the exquisitely detailed and gorgeous design,' said Tadashi Nishitani, professor emeritus at Kyushu University and an expert on archaeology in East Asia.
'The discoveries on this object are unprecedented and there is no other example. This really shows the greatness of national rituals on Okinoshima island,' he said.
The spear tip remains inside a gilt bronze sheath.
The researchers used a CT scan to create a three-dimensional perspective projection of the blade, allowing them to see inside the sheath and beneath the rust.
The cross section of the spear is triangular.
Some researchers believe the pattern is a Japanese arabesque design featuring a combination of hexagonal patterns surrounding a phoenix. Others say the design consists of floral or feather patterns.
Toshinori Mizuno, material section chief at the Archaeological Institute of Kashihara, Nara Prefecture, said the spear is 'unique and of excellent quality among items in the East Asian region.'
'I assume it was created by the Yamato Dynasty for a ritual ceremony at Okinoshima island,' he said.
About 80,000 items were discovered on Okinoshima island after World War II, and all of them have been designated as national treasures.
The Cultural Affairs Agency provided a subsidy to the Preservation and Utilization Council of 'Sacred Island of Okinoshima and Associated Sites in the Munakata Region' to conduct X-ray examinations on about 4,200 metal objects, including the spear, from the island.
The council consists of Munakata Taisha shrine, Fukuoka Prefecture, a local municipal government and other related parties.