Katana - Japan

06
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€ 1
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Julien Gauthier
Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier

With almost a decade of experience bridging science, museum curation, and traditional blacksmithing, Julien has developed a unique expertise in historical arms, armour, and African art.

Estimate  € 150 - € 200
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Edo period iron tsuba in mokko-gata with kin-zōgan gold inlay depicting falling rain, autumn grasses and drifting clouds; dimensions 63 × 69 mm, thickness 4 mm, weight 72 g, with age-appropriate wear and natural patina.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

A refined Edo-period iron tsuba featuring delicate kin-zōgan (gold inlay) work, presenting an elegant scene of falling rain, drifting clouds, and autumn grasses—motifs traditionally symbolizing serenity, transience, and the poetic spirit of the samurai.
This piece is crafted in a mokko-gata (lobed) silhouette, a form favored by high-ranking warriors for its graceful balance and functional strength.

Fine linear inlays—representing streaking rain—are executed with precision, while the lower section displays tasteful gold inlay of field plants and seed pods, subtly shimmering against the deep, textured iron surface. The surrounding iron bears a naturally aged patina, characteristic of authentic Edo craftsmanship.

The tsuba shows gentle wear consistent with age, enhancing its historical presence. All openings (nakago-ana & kozuka/koiguchi hitsu-ana) remain beautifully shaped, with the handmade irregularities that distinguish genuine period work.

A highly decorative and collectible example—ideal for connoisseurs of Japanese arms, wabi-sabi art aesthetics, or interior display.

Specifications

Shape: Mokko-gata

Material: Iron with gold inlay

Period: Edo period (17th–19th century)

Dimensions:

Width: 63 mm

Height: 69 mm

Thickness: 4 mm

Weight: 72 g

Condition: Age-appropriate wear, minor surface oxidation, stable overall. Please check photos carefully.



Tsuba
Samurai
Katana
Edo
Iron
Mokko
Zogan
Sword
Koshirae
Antique
Japan
Fittings

【Important Information】

International customers are responsible for any import duties, taxes, and fees not included in the item price or shipping costs. Please note that the VAT paid to Catawiki is separate from and does not include your country's import duties or customs clearance fees. Additional charges may be levied upon delivery at the discretion of your local customs authorities. We strongly advise checking with your country's customs office regarding these potential additional costs before bidding or purchasing. Prompt payment of these charges ensures timely delivery.

Delivery Details: Most items are shipped via Japan Post (airmail). Upon request, delivery via DHL or FedEx can be arranged at an additional cost.

Damage or Issues: Should you receive a damaged item, please contact us immediately before leaving a negative review. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. For damage claims, please report to your nearest post office within 7 days of delivery. Please also promptly contact us and Catawiki Support.

Due to the suspension of the “de minimis” exemption in the United States, import duties may be higher for shipments to the US. US bidders should be aware of this. As EMS shipments to the US are currently suspended, we will ship via DHL. Shipping costs will be higher than before; we appreciate your understanding.

A refined Edo-period iron tsuba featuring delicate kin-zōgan (gold inlay) work, presenting an elegant scene of falling rain, drifting clouds, and autumn grasses—motifs traditionally symbolizing serenity, transience, and the poetic spirit of the samurai.
This piece is crafted in a mokko-gata (lobed) silhouette, a form favored by high-ranking warriors for its graceful balance and functional strength.

Fine linear inlays—representing streaking rain—are executed with precision, while the lower section displays tasteful gold inlay of field plants and seed pods, subtly shimmering against the deep, textured iron surface. The surrounding iron bears a naturally aged patina, characteristic of authentic Edo craftsmanship.

The tsuba shows gentle wear consistent with age, enhancing its historical presence. All openings (nakago-ana & kozuka/koiguchi hitsu-ana) remain beautifully shaped, with the handmade irregularities that distinguish genuine period work.

A highly decorative and collectible example—ideal for connoisseurs of Japanese arms, wabi-sabi art aesthetics, or interior display.

Specifications

Shape: Mokko-gata

Material: Iron with gold inlay

Period: Edo period (17th–19th century)

Dimensions:

Width: 63 mm

Height: 69 mm

Thickness: 4 mm

Weight: 72 g

Condition: Age-appropriate wear, minor surface oxidation, stable overall. Please check photos carefully.



Tsuba
Samurai
Katana
Edo
Iron
Mokko
Zogan
Sword
Koshirae
Antique
Japan
Fittings

【Important Information】

International customers are responsible for any import duties, taxes, and fees not included in the item price or shipping costs. Please note that the VAT paid to Catawiki is separate from and does not include your country's import duties or customs clearance fees. Additional charges may be levied upon delivery at the discretion of your local customs authorities. We strongly advise checking with your country's customs office regarding these potential additional costs before bidding or purchasing. Prompt payment of these charges ensures timely delivery.

Delivery Details: Most items are shipped via Japan Post (airmail). Upon request, delivery via DHL or FedEx can be arranged at an additional cost.

Damage or Issues: Should you receive a damaged item, please contact us immediately before leaving a negative review. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. For damage claims, please report to your nearest post office within 7 days of delivery. Please also promptly contact us and Catawiki Support.

Due to the suspension of the “de minimis” exemption in the United States, import duties may be higher for shipments to the US. US bidders should be aware of this. As EMS shipments to the US are currently suspended, we will ship via DHL. Shipping costs will be higher than before; we appreciate your understanding.

Details

Era
1900-2000
Manufacturer/ Brand
Edo Period Iron Tsuba – Inlaid Autumn Grasses & Falling Rain – Samurai Sword Guard – 63×69mm / 72g
Country of Origin
Japan
Condition
Fair
Overall Length
63 mm
Estimated Period
1910-1920, 1920-1930
JapanVerified
719
Objects sold
97.12%
Private

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