Tsuba Sword Guard (160g) Mokko Shaped Chrysanthemum Design in High-Relief Inlay - Japan - Late Edo period or Later
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Current bid
€ 80
Reserve price not met
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
14 other people are watching this object
 Bidder 3795 | €80 | |
|---|---|---|
| Bidder 3795 | €70 | |
| Bidder 3795 | €60 | |
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Japan origin tsuba of mokko (quatrefoil) shape, H 8.3 cm × W 7.7 cm × D 0.6 cm, Edo period or later, with shakudō nanako ground and finely detailed chrysanthemums in high-relief inlay of brass and copper, brass fukurin border, in good antique condition with patina and minor blemishes, accompanied by a wooden box showing spotting and lining discoloration.
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Description from the seller
【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 Edo period or later tsuba is crafted in mokko (quatrefoil) shape with a shakudō (blackened copper) nanako ground. The surface is decorated with finely detailed chrysanthemums executed in high-relief inlay, using brass, copper, and alloy to achieve subtle variations in colour and texture. The rim is reinforced with a brass fukurin (protective edging), framing the composition with elegance.
Nanako is a traditional decorative technique where countless minute dots are struck into the surface with a specialised punch, creating the appearance of fish roe. Producing perfectly even granulation required exceptional skill, and only the most accomplished metalworkers were capable of creating highly refined “single-grain nanako.”
Chrysanthemums, one of the most revered motifs in Japanese art, symbolise longevity, rejuvenation, and imperial dignity. Their inclusion on this tsuba reflects both auspicious wishes and refined aesthetic taste.
There are adjustment marks visible around the nakago-ana (central aperture). The piece shows natural patina, minor blemishes, and light wear consistent with age, but remains in good antique condition. The accompanying wooden box has some spotting and the fabric lining inside shows discoloration. Please refer to the photos for details.
Dimensions: approx. H 8.3 cm W 7.7 cm D 0.6 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!
Seller's Story
Welcome to Yorozuya Arinsu!
We are an antique shop based on the outskirts of Tokyo, originally focusing on the Japanese market but proudly expanding to serve international customers. In August 2023, we became a pro seller on Catawiki, and since then, we’ve enjoyed sharing our passion for Japanese art and antiques with collectors worldwide.
Our collection includes a diverse range of items, from genuine antiques to contemporary art pieces. We take pride in offering unique, high-quality objects that reflect Japan’s rich cultural heritage as well as modern creativity. If there’s something specific you’re looking for, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram: 【yorozuya_arinsu】
Thank you for visiting our shop, and we look forward to helping you find your next special piece!
【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 Edo period or later tsuba is crafted in mokko (quatrefoil) shape with a shakudō (blackened copper) nanako ground. The surface is decorated with finely detailed chrysanthemums executed in high-relief inlay, using brass, copper, and alloy to achieve subtle variations in colour and texture. The rim is reinforced with a brass fukurin (protective edging), framing the composition with elegance.
Nanako is a traditional decorative technique where countless minute dots are struck into the surface with a specialised punch, creating the appearance of fish roe. Producing perfectly even granulation required exceptional skill, and only the most accomplished metalworkers were capable of creating highly refined “single-grain nanako.”
Chrysanthemums, one of the most revered motifs in Japanese art, symbolise longevity, rejuvenation, and imperial dignity. Their inclusion on this tsuba reflects both auspicious wishes and refined aesthetic taste.
There are adjustment marks visible around the nakago-ana (central aperture). The piece shows natural patina, minor blemishes, and light wear consistent with age, but remains in good antique condition. The accompanying wooden box has some spotting and the fabric lining inside shows discoloration. Please refer to the photos for details.
Dimensions: approx. H 8.3 cm W 7.7 cm D 0.6 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!
Seller's Story
Welcome to Yorozuya Arinsu!
We are an antique shop based on the outskirts of Tokyo, originally focusing on the Japanese market but proudly expanding to serve international customers. In August 2023, we became a pro seller on Catawiki, and since then, we’ve enjoyed sharing our passion for Japanese art and antiques with collectors worldwide.
Our collection includes a diverse range of items, from genuine antiques to contemporary art pieces. We take pride in offering unique, high-quality objects that reflect Japan’s rich cultural heritage as well as modern creativity. If there’s something specific you’re looking for, feel free to reach out to us on Instagram: 【yorozuya_arinsu】
Thank you for visiting our shop, and we look forward to helping you find your next special piece!
Details
Dynastic Style/Period
Late Edo period or Later
Country of Origin
Japan
Height
8.3 cm
Width
7.7 cm
Title of artwork
Tsuba Sword Guard (160g) Mokko Shaped Chrysanthemum Design in High-Relief Inlay
Depth
0.6 cm
Condition
Good condition
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