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: 7.8 cm (3 1/16 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of D. Z. Norton 1919.459
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print
A circular iron sword guard is defined by eight rounded lobes along its perimeter. Weathered, dark-brown metal forms the pitted surface, featuring a tall vertical opening at the center. A smaller semi-circular cutout is punched out to the right, surrounded by two incised concentric circles. Symmetrical scrolling lines trace the curve of each lobe, creating a decorative border. The scalloped edge transitions to the scrolling patterns under an aged patina.

Sword Guard (Tsuba)

c. 1615–1868

Japan, possibly Edo period (1615-1868)

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