【Important notes】 ・International buyers are responsible for any import duties, taxes, and charges not included in the item price or shipping cost. Please note that VAT paid to Catawiki is separate from and does not cover import duties or customs charges in your country. You may still be required to pay additional fees upon delivery, as determined by your local customs authorities. ・Shipping Details: Most items are shipped via Japan Post EMS (airmail). If you are in a hurry, we can arrange shipping via DHL or FedEx upon request for an additional fee. ・Damage and Issues: If you receive a damaged item, please contact us immediately. The damage must be reported to your local post office within 7 days of delivery, and promptly to us and Catawiki support. 【Product details】 This solid brass sword guard (tsuba), weighing 160 g, dates from the late Meiji period or later and was made for use with the swords of the former Imperial Japanese Army and Navy. The design features cherry blossoms and openwork details, both strongly associated with Japanese military fittings of the pre-war era. Cherry blossoms are one of Japan’s most enduring symbols, representing the fleeting nature of life, renewal, and the spirit of sacrifice. During the period of the Imperial Army and Navy, the cherry blossom also came to embody loyalty and dedication to the nation, making it a powerful emblem on military sword fittings. The piece is heavy and well-cast, with a substantial presence in the hand. Both the guard and the accompanying copper spacer (seppa) bear a stamped marking resembling the number “9,” likely an assembly or matching mark. Signs of age include surface wear, patina, and areas of discolouration, consistent with its age and use. Please refer to the photos for further details. Dimensions of Tusba: approx. H 7 cm W 5.6 cm D 1 cm ・Please make sure to review all the provided information and images before placing your bid. ・We make every effort to accurately represent the product's colors and textures in our photos. However, due to differences in monitors and device displays, as well as photographic conditions, slight color variations between the photos and the actual product may occur. We ask for your understanding in advance. Thank you for your interest, and happy bidding!