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
Average: 8.3 x 8.3 cm (3 1/4 x 3 1/4 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of D. Z. Norton 1919.501
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print
A dark, pitted iron sword guard forms a four-lobed disc. A wedge-shaped aperture centers the object, flanked by a circular opening and a trilobed void. Thin brass wires wrap transversely around the perimeter of each lobe, creating a rhythmic, skeletal border against the matte, rust-flecked metal. The heavy texture and utilitarian form are balanced by the fine metallic accents that encircle the outer edge.

Sword Guard (Tsuba)

c. 1615–1868

Japan, possibly Edo period (1615-1868)

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork