Japanese iron tsuba depicting the Chionin temple bell, dated 1836
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
1836
This Japanese iron tsuba, or sword guard, is crafted in the nademarugata form and features intricate maru-bori (round carving) technique. Dating to 1836, the 7th year of the Tenpo era, it showcases detailed embellishments in gold and silver takazogan and hirazogan.
The design depicts a scene of people visiting the Chionin temple in Kyoto during the spring, captivated by the temple's great bell, or ogane. The composition includes cherry blossoms, serving as a symbol of transience in contrast to the enduring bell. The obverse features a banner inscribed with 'Tencho' (Heaven eternal), while the reverse is signed 'Chikyu' (Earth everlasting), together forming a philosophical phrase conveying timelessness.
The tsuba measures 6.8 cm in height, 6.4 cm in length, and has a weight of 84 grams. It is constructed with one kogai hitsu ana. The craftsmanship demonstrates high artistry in the depiction of figures and architectural elements through metal inlay and delicate sculptural work, reflecting a fusion of historical, religious, and poetic themes significant to Edo-period metalwork.
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
- Weight
- 84 g
- Material
- iron, gold, silver
- Dimensions
- 6.8 cm x 6.4 cm
Technical characteristics
- Features
- one kogai hitsu ana
- Construction
- maru-bori (round carving)
Design
- Obverse
- people visiting Chionin temple, cherry blossoms, banner inscribed 'Tencho'
- Reverse
- people, signed 'Chikyu'
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.
- Maker named in listing
- Chikyu
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.