Japan - Sword guard - Edo Period





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Iron mokkō-gata tsuba from Japan with gold, silver and copper inlay, depicting a figure peering into a jar and a face in flowing water, dating to the Edo Period, approximately 7.5 × 6.8 cm and 0.5 cm thick (115 g), in very good condition.
Description from the seller
Iron Tsuba Depicting a Figure Peering into a Jar and a Human Face in Flowing Water, with Gold, Silver and Copper Inlay
An iron tsuba of mokkō-gata form, decorated with finely executed gold, silver, and copper inlay.
The design depicts a figure peering into a large jar. Below, a human face emerges within flowing water spilling from a broken vessel. Combining narrative imagery with imaginative symbolism, the composition creates a mysterious and evocative scene that invites interpretation.
This is a distinctive and impressive example of Japanese sword fitting art, notable for its unusual subject matter and expressive decoration. The dark iron surface provides an attractive contrast to the delicate multi-metal inlay details, enhancing the visual impact of the design.
Internal Reference No.: R60329W016
Material: Iron (cast/wrought), gold, silver and copper inlay
Dimensions
Height: 7.5 cm
Width: 6.85 cm
Thickness: 0.5 cm
Weight: 115 g
Condition
An old piece in good condition considering its age. Minor wear and age-related patina consistent with long-term use and storage. Fitted with an associated wooden storage box (awase-bako).
■■Please Read Before Purchasing■■
□Important Information Regarding Purchase□
This product was sourced from the Japanese second-hand market. Because it was sourced from the second-hand market, even if it is new, it may be sold as a second-hand item. As it is a secondary market item, the original purchase date and usage period are unknown, and we cannot answer questions regarding these. The age of the product is determined based on personal research and does not definitively determine the product's age.
The product description is a subjective opinion. Perceptions vary from person to person, so the final decision is left to the buyer.
If you are sensitive to these points, please refrain from bidding.
In case of errors in the product description, the information in the photos takes precedence.
All accessories shown in the photos are included. Accessories not shown in the photos are not included.
・Support
If you have any problems with your order, please contact us via the website within 3 days of receiving the product.
Please attach photos or a short video of the problem area.
We will respond promptly and sincerely.
・Cancellation/Return
In case of cancellation or return due to customer reasons,
all related costs, such as return shipping fees and customs duties, will be borne by the customer.
Shipping
Shipping will be handled by DHL, FedEx, or Japan Post.
We do not accept requests for specific shipping methods.
Shipping period: 2-7 business days after payment confirmation.
Business days do not include Saturdays, Sundays, or public holidays.
We strive for smooth and reliable transactions. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
Seller's Story
Iron Tsuba Depicting a Figure Peering into a Jar and a Human Face in Flowing Water, with Gold, Silver and Copper Inlay
An iron tsuba of mokkō-gata form, decorated with finely executed gold, silver, and copper inlay.
The design depicts a figure peering into a large jar. Below, a human face emerges within flowing water spilling from a broken vessel. Combining narrative imagery with imaginative symbolism, the composition creates a mysterious and evocative scene that invites interpretation.
This is a distinctive and impressive example of Japanese sword fitting art, notable for its unusual subject matter and expressive decoration. The dark iron surface provides an attractive contrast to the delicate multi-metal inlay details, enhancing the visual impact of the design.
Internal Reference No.: R60329W016
Material: Iron (cast/wrought), gold, silver and copper inlay
Dimensions
Height: 7.5 cm
Width: 6.85 cm
Thickness: 0.5 cm
Weight: 115 g
Condition
An old piece in good condition considering its age. Minor wear and age-related patina consistent with long-term use and storage. Fitted with an associated wooden storage box (awase-bako).
■■Please Read Before Purchasing■■
□Important Information Regarding Purchase□
This product was sourced from the Japanese second-hand market. Because it was sourced from the second-hand market, even if it is new, it may be sold as a second-hand item. As it is a secondary market item, the original purchase date and usage period are unknown, and we cannot answer questions regarding these. The age of the product is determined based on personal research and does not definitively determine the product's age.
The product description is a subjective opinion. Perceptions vary from person to person, so the final decision is left to the buyer.
If you are sensitive to these points, please refrain from bidding.
In case of errors in the product description, the information in the photos takes precedence.
All accessories shown in the photos are included. Accessories not shown in the photos are not included.
・Support
If you have any problems with your order, please contact us via the website within 3 days of receiving the product.
Please attach photos or a short video of the problem area.
We will respond promptly and sincerely.
・Cancellation/Return
In case of cancellation or return due to customer reasons,
all related costs, such as return shipping fees and customs duties, will be borne by the customer.
Shipping
Shipping will be handled by DHL, FedEx, or Japan Post.
We do not accept requests for specific shipping methods.
Shipping period: 2-7 business days after payment confirmation.
Business days do not include Saturdays, Sundays, or public holidays.
We strive for smooth and reliable transactions. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

