Antique Japanese Sword Handle (Tsuka) - Kashiwa, Axe & Noh Theatre Motifs - Wakizashi Tosogu ■ Description Welcome to LastPiece -Time Travel Japan-. We circulate precious memories, passing them on to become someone else's ultimate treasure—your "Last Piece." We are a professional Japanese seller dedicated to delivering the final, missing piece of your collection, traveling across time straight from Japan to your hands. [Product Overview: Authentic Samurai Sword Fittings] Up for auction is an authentic antique Tsuka (sword handle), specifically crafted for a Japanese Wakizashi (short sword) or Tanto (dagger). In the world of Tosogu (Japanese sword fittings), the handle is not merely a functional grip; it is a canvas showcasing the profound aesthetics, philosophy, and status of the Samurai who wielded it. [Artistic Details & Motifs] This specific Tsuka is richly decorated with sophisticated, high-culture motifs: Fuchi & Kashira (Collar & Pommel): Decorated with mixed-metal colored reliefs depicting an Axe and Kashiwa (Oak leaves). In Samurai culture, the oak leaf is a highly auspicious symbol of resilience and unbroken lineage, as the old leaves do not fall until the new ones bud. Menuki (Handle Ornaments): Beautifully detailed mixed-metal ornaments depicting a scene/mask from traditional Japanese Noh theatre, reflecting the refined, aristocratic tastes of the Edo period warrior class. Base: The wooden core is covered in genuine Samegawa (Ray skin), wrapped in traditional brown cord (Tsuka-ito). [Specifications] Object: Tsuka (Japanese Sword Handle / Tosogu) Dimensions: approx. H 16.0 cm × W 3.79 cm × D 3.20 cm Nakago-ana (Tang hole size): H 2.45 cm × W 0.73 cm Weight: 77 g [Condition & Wabi-Sabi] Condition: Fair / Antique condition. Please note that this is an authentic, historically used antique item. As clearly shown in the photographs, the brown wrapping cord (Tsuka-ito) exhibits significant fraying, wear, and discoloration due to age and actual historical use. The metal fittings and ray skin also show natural antique aging. For serious collectors, this heavy wear is highly appreciated as genuine historical patina and a testament to its survival through time. Please carefully review all provided high-resolution photographs to fully appreciate its rugged historical character and the intricate details of the metalwork before bidding. [Important Notice to Bidders / Terms of Sale] As a dealer handling a vast array of vintage and collectible items, we kindly ask for your understanding of the following conditions before bidding: Colors and textures may appear slightly different from the actual product depending on your computer monitor or display settings. To prevent any misunderstandings, please ensure you are fully satisfied with the item's condition and the bid amount before placing your bid. [Shipping & Handling] Your antique Tsuka will be packed carefully to ensure it arrives securely and in the exact condition described. Shipped directly from Japan with a tracking number. (Please note: Import duties, taxes, and custom charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding.) Search Tags: Tsuka, Tosogu, Katana, Wakizashi, Tanto, Samurai, Edo Period, Fuchi Kashira, Menuki, Samegawa, Japanese Sword Fittings, Budo, Martial Arts, Japanese Antiques, Antique Weaponry.