镶嵌铁鐔 - 鐵（鑄） - Ox-Herding Boy Motif Signed “光壽” - 日本

This is a Japanese antique iron tsuba (sword guard) featuring a charming ox-herding boy motif, executed in zōgan (inlay) against a dark iron ground. The design depicts a pastoral scene of a child guiding a water buffalo, a traditional symbol in Japanese art representing innocence, diligence, harmony with nature, and Zen philosophy.

The tsuba is signed “Kōju” (光壽), an artist name associated with refined metalwork craftsmanship. The iron plate shows a rich, aged patina developed over time, highlighting the contrast between the warm gold inlay and the subdued iron surface.

Originally crafted as a functional and decorative fitting for a Japanese sword, this tsuba is now highly valued as a collectible art object, suitable for display, study, or inclusion in a sword fitting collection.