Antique Japanese Tsuba sword guard
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
Antique
This antique Japanese tsuba serves as a sword or dagger guard, designed to protect the hand of the user. The object is characterized by a circular, openwork design featuring intricate geometric patterns.
At its center, it contains a distinct nakago-ana, the central hole through which the tang of the blade would pass. The guard exhibits a dark, patinated surface, suggesting a construction from forged iron or a similar base metal common to such traditional fittings. Its outer edge is finished with a rhythmic, textured border pattern. Measuring 2 3/4 inches by 2 1/2 inches, the tsuba is a functional component of samurai-style weaponry, balancing structural utility with decorative craftsmanship.
The openwork grid and curvilinear motifs exemplify the traditional metalwork techniques employed in the production of Japanese sword furniture, intended to reduce weight while maintaining the necessary strength and aesthetic appeal for a sword guard intended to be mounted on a blade.
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Physical characteristics
- Dimensions
- 2 3/4" x 2 1/2"
Design
- Style
- openwork
- Motifs
- geometric patterns
Identification
- Source note
- Described from a single auction-house listing published on Invaluable (reproduced with Invaluable's permission). Details apply to that one example; other examples of the type may differ, and the listing is supplementary evidence, not authentication.
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.