The Eta Funayama Burial Mound and the Advanced Culture of Provincial Clans
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Water Vessel
Reportedly found in the Kinki Region, Kofun period, 6th–7th centuryJapanese Archaeology and Special Exhibition (Heiseikan) Japanese Archaeology Gallery
July 8, 2025 (Tue) - February 1, 2026 (Sun)Eta Funayama, which is located in Kumamoto prefecture in southwestern Japan, is a keyhole-shaped burial mound with a length of 77 meters. The numerous objects excavated from this mound include a now-famous sword with inscriptions in silver inlay, jewelry and other ornaments made of gold, silver, and gilt bronze, imported bronze mirrors, horse tack, and weapons. As prime examples of objects excavated from a burial mound in Japan, they were designated National Treasures in 1965.
The jewelry and accessories, in particular, which are made from precious metals, are equivalent in quality to Korean accessories related to prestigious governmental ranks. Moreover, the gilt bronze crowns and ornamental shoes served as models for objects created later in Japan, and led to the custom of wearing metal accessories in the 6th century. Horse tack was also excavated from this mound and shows that the Japanese had acquired the technique of horseback riding.
Furthermore, unique Japanese armor, which was made in the Kinai region, suggests that the entombed individuals were advanced and had strong connections with the central Yamato Kingdom.
These excavated objects shine light on the activities of provincial clans in Japan, which interacted with Korean kingdoms such as Baekje.
| Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
| Highlight | National Treasure | Crown | Found at the Eta Funayama Tumulus, Kumamoto | Kofun period, 5th–6th century | J-787 | ||
| Highlight | National Treasure | Mirror with a Pictorial Band, Ring-Shaped Bosses, Deities, and Beasts | Found at Eta Funayama Tumulus, Kumamoto | Kofun period, 5th–6th century | J-186 | ||
| Highlight | Trefoil-Shaped Ring Pommel | Found at the Tamashima or Handa Miyanoue Tumulus, Saga | Kofun period, 6th century | J-7022-1 | |||
| Highlight | Water Vessel | Reportedly found in the Kinki Region | Kofun period, 6th–7th century | J-38400 |