Artwork Page for Sword Guard (Tsuba)

Details / Information for Sword Guard (Tsuba)

Sword Guard (Tsuba)

c. 1615–1868

Japan, possibly Edo period

(1615-1868)
Medium
iron
Measurements
Diameter: 8.4 cm (3 5/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of D. Z. Norton 1919.395
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print
A circular iron sword guard features a scalloped edge and dark, pitted surface. Four heart-shaped cutouts sit around the rim, outlined by rope-textured gold lines. A pattern of scrolling vines and small gold flowers at the top and bottom decorates the body. A narrow, pointed vertical opening is centered between two larger openings. Delicate gold designs contrast with the weathered metal, balancing geometric and organic motifs.

Sword Guard (Tsuba)

c. 1615–1868

Japan, possibly Edo period (1615-1868)

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