Late Edo period

TSUBA – Golden bamboo motif (nunome-zōgan)
Type: Mokko-gata (melon flower form).


Decoration / Motif: Bamboo leaves inlay of brass or golden shakudō (nunome-zōgan), with finely drawn branches on an iron background. The design combines rustic simplicity and artisanal refinement. Also, some birds in flight.


School or style: Higo / Late Edo, with characteristics similar to Nara-machi workshops due to the application of gilding and the sober modeling of iron.


Estimated period: Late Edo period (19th century).


Wrought iron with brass inlays.


Technique: Low relief carving and nunome-zōgan inlay (hammered metal threads on iron).


Measurements: 8.5 × 8.5 cm


Weight: 144 g


Condition: Good; stable patina with slight wear and four regular circular indentations, possibly due to an old fixation or support from restoration. Some verdigris or small superficial oxides are observed.