Description:

East Asia, Japan, Edo Period, ca. 18th century CE. A lovely forged-iron tsuba, a disc-shaped hand guard traditionally placed between the blade and handle of Japanese swords. The surface is decorated with incised foliate motifs. The central blade opening (Nakago-ana) is flanked by a decorative ovoid hole (Kogai Hitsu-ana). Size: 2.9" W (7.4 cm)

A tsuba is the hand guard of a traditional Japanese sword, usually a katana or tachi. Its primary purposes are to balance the sword, prevent one's hand from sliding down the blade and, as a last resort, as a block against an opponent's thrust or slash. However, as time and skills developed, the tsuba evolved into an artistic item and symbol representing wealth, prestige, or skills as a swordsman. Early tsuba, known as neri tsuba, were made of leather encased in an iron or wooden frame which was occasionally lacquered for strength and stability.

Provenance: private southern California, USA collection, acquired before 2000

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#159743

  • Condition: Nice deep brown patina with wear from obvious use.

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March 11, 2021 10:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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