【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 tsuba, crafted by the renowned Myochin Munechika, is a large, square-shaped example of exceptional artistry. The tsuba bears a brass inlaid mark (inlay seal) of Munechika on one side, and a beautifully detailed brass inlay of a phoenix and plovers on the other. The phoenix symbolizes renewal, immortality, and good fortune, while the plovers represent resilience and perseverance, often depicted flying through stormy seas, embodying determination and strength. The Myochin family has been a celebrated line of armorers since the Heian period, their craftsmanship so esteemed that in the 12th century, they were granted the surname “Myochin” by Emperor Konoe. After generations of providing armor during wartime, the family became official armorers to the Himeji domain in the Edo period, relocating to Himeji. This tsuba includes copper inserts fitted into the tang hole to ensure a secure fit when mounted on a sword. The areas around the tang hole are also hammered for added precision, highlighting the practical skill that complements the aesthetic beauty of this piece. The tsuba exhibits wear consistent with its age, including minor rust and patina on the brass inlays. The accompanying paulownia wood box is not original to the piece, and the lid has inscriptions unrelated to this tsuba. Please note that the part inside the box intended to hold the tsuba in place is missing. Kindly review the photographs carefully for a detailed view of its condition. Dimensions: approx. H 8.5 cm W 8 cm D 0.4 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!