Kato Kiyomasa tsuba (sword guard) with associated wooden storage box

This tsuba, or Japanese sword guard, is associated with the Sengoku period warlord Kato Kiyomasa. It features an elegant design characteristic of traditional Japanese sword fittings and is presented with its original wooden storage box, which bears an inscription.

The tsuba is connected to the historical context of Kumamoto Castle, where skilled metalworkers and gunsmiths were gathered, influencing the development of the Higo tsuba style. The construction reflects the craftsmanship of a period when sword guards were both functional pieces of military equipment and highly artistic accessories. The item comes with a storage pouch and a wooden box, which exhibits signs of wear, including scratches and stains, consistent with its age and storage conditions.

The tsuba measures 8.2 cm in width and 9 cm in height, with a thickness of 5 cm, while the wooden box dimensions are 10.5 cm by 10.5 cm with a thickness of 2.8 cm. The set provides insight into the material culture surrounding the samurai class and the legacy of notable military commanders from the Sengoku era.