Artwork Page for Sword Guard (Tsuba) with Shells and Seaweed

Details / Information for Sword Guard (Tsuba) with Shells and Seaweed

Sword Guard (Tsuba) with Shells and Seaweed

c. 1615–1868

Japan, possibly Edo period

(1615–1868)
Medium
metal
Measurements
Diameter: 7.4 cm (2 15/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of D. Z. Norton 1919.383
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print
A circular sword guard features a dark-patinated metal body with a central wedge-shaped cutout. Various shells in high relief, including a fan-shaped variety on the left, form a scalloped outer rim. Winding, vine-like gold patterns depicting seaweed decorate the textured surface. Small circular perforations dot the lower edge and top right. A smooth, raised border surrounds the central opening, contrasting with the detailed, shell-strewn perimeter.

Sword Guard (Tsuba) with Shells and Seaweed

c. 1615–1868

Japan, possibly Edo period (1615–1868)

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