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Japanese Sword Mounting Set: Tsuka, Tsuba and Seppa

DocumentedSupported by at least one credible specialist source.

Record status

Individual type · partial

Period

period piece

This collection represents a set of traditional Japanese sword mountings, featuring four distinct components designed for a katana. The set includes a tsuka (handle) measuring approximately 23 cm in length, meticulously wrapped in brown tsuka-ito over authentic ray skin (samegawa).

The tsuka is decorated with luxurious gold menuki depicting the sixteen-petal chrysanthemum crest, while the fuchi-kashira fittings showcase intricate carvings and gold inlays of a Kataguruma wave pattern combined with autumn grass. Accompanying the handle is a mokko-gata tsuba (handguard) crafted with a golden base and square cherry blossom motifs, measuring 7.5 cm by 7.0 cm. The central nakago-ana of the tsuba retains traditional chisel adjustment marks, though a structural crack exists on the lower side.

Two matching golden seppa (spacers) with serrated edges complete the set, one of which features small decorative engravings on both sides. These components collectively reflect period artistry through consistent floral motifs and precise metalwork, suitable for antique appreciation.

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

Tsuka width
3.5 cm
Tsuka length
23 cm
Tsuba dimensions
7.5 cm x 7.0 cm x 5 mm

Technical characteristics

Nakago ana
chisel marks
Tsuba shape
mokko-gata
Tsuka fittings
fuchi-kashira with gold inlays

Design

Motifs
Chrysanthemum and Cherry Blossom, Kataguruma wave pattern, autumn grass

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.