Tsuba Sword Guards - Replica of Souten (宗典), Horses in Relief and Mokko Shape with Radiating Line - Japan - 20th century (No Reserve Price)

【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. We strongly recommend checking with your country's customs office to determine these additional costs before bidding or buying. Prompt payment of these fees ensures timely delivery.
・Shipping Details: Most items are shipped via Japan Post EMS (airmail). Upon request, we can arrange shipping via DHL or FedEx for an additional fee.
・Damage and Issues: If you receive a damaged item, please contact us immediately before leaving a negative review. We kindly ask for your patience and the opportunity to rectify the issue. The damage must be reported to your local post office within 7 days of delivery, and promptly to us and Catawiki support.

【Product details】

①
This brass tsuba sword guard weighs 180g and comes in a wood storage box. The guard is signed “Goshu Hikone-jū Soten 江州彦根住宗典,” a name belonging to the celebrated souten of the Sōheishi school. This lineage of carvers flourished around present-day Hikone in Shiga Prefecture, and Munenori is regarded as one of its representative masters.The surface is decorated in relief with autumn flowers, including chrysanthemum symbolising longevity and imperial dignity, pink representing purity and grace, kudzu vine expressing vitality and strong growth, Japanese pampas grass associated with autumn harvests and the fleeting beauty of the season, bellflower conveying unchanging love and loyalty, and Patrinia standing for feminine beauty and refinement.
Around the tang opening, small adjustment marks are visible. The piece shows minor blemishes from age, such as surface wear, small scratches, and natural patina, but remains in good used condition. Please refer to the photos for details. A finely made Showa-era replica tsuba sword guard, combining traditional themes with skilled metalwork.

Dimensions: approx. H 7.5 cm W 7.3 cm D 0.4 cm

②
This Japanese sword guard (tsuba) is made of iron with a raised rim (dote-mimi) and decorated with carved reliefs of horses. On the front, two horses are shown together, while the reverse side depicts a single horse, creating a balanced and dynamic composition.
In Japanese symbolism, the horse represents power, speed, and loyalty. Horses were revered as sacred animals connected with shrines and believed to serve as messengers of the gods. They also embody martial spirit and the close bond between warrior and steed, making the motif especially appropriate for a sword fitting.
Minor blemishes, including scuffs and slight rust, but it remains in good used condition. Please check the photos for details.

Dimensions: approx. H 8.3 cm W 7.4 cm D 0.4 cm

③
An Japanese iron tsuba sword guard forged in the mokko (quatrefoil) shape, with a striking radiating line design carved into the surface. The lines spread outward from the central opening, evoking sunlight, a powerful symbol of vitality and protection in Japanese culture.
Minor blemishes such as scuffs and scratches consistent with age are present. Please check the photos for details of its condition. Comes with a paper storage box.

Dimensions: approx. H 8.2 cm W 6.7 cm D 0.5 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!