Sword guard, copper plate with gold and iro-e takazogan, Japan, 19th century

TOSHITSUGU: A SUPERB SUAKA TSUBA WITH A SNAKE AND LOOFAH GOURD, WITH NBTHK TOKUBETSU KICHO (ESPECIALLY PRECIOUS) CERTIFICATE By Toshitsugu, signed Toshitsugu Japan, mid to late 19th century Published & Exhibited: Samouraïs. Guerriers et esthètes, Bibliothèque Nationale et Universitaire, Strasbourg, 11 March-13 July 2022, p. 162, no. 175.

With a tokubetsu kicho (especially precious) certificate of the NBTHK, dated 1 October 1977. Of tateitomakigata form, the refined copper plate of ishimeji ground, decorated in gold and iro-e takazogan to depict a snake beneath a long gourd hanging from vines, flanked by two sparrows. The reverse with two edamame pods on a leafy vine and signed TOSHITSUGU. HEIGHT 9.2 cm, LENGTH 7.6 cm WEIGHT 219.8 g Provenance: Ex-collection Patrick Liebermann.

This design featuring a loofah gourd became popular in the latter half of the 19th century and was taken up by metalworkers, many of whom had previously specialized in sword fittings. Following the 1876 Sword Abolishment Edict, demand for such fittings sharply declined. In response, many artisans turned their attention to decorative arts, using organic forms like gourds and vines to showcase their exceptional technical skill. The sinuous lines and layered surfaces provided opportunities for intricate detailing, including inlays of gold for leaves and tendrils.

These works were often created with an eye toward international audiences, especially after Japan’s opening to the West.