Ishi Sashi Ingot Weight

Today known by the Japanese name “ishi-sashi,” meaning “awesome stone padlock,” this type of stone weight was used as part of intensive martial arts training. Hand-carved from solid limestone, the weight was used to strengthen one's arms and back, swung in the air much like a modern kettle bell. While most ishi sashi are carved in the shape of a padlock, this example has flared sides and sloping curves to resemble a large ingot, bestowing the user with blessings of wealth and prosperity in addition to strength.