Tsuba, brons. Japan, Edo perioden (1666-1868).

Rektangulär med indragna hörn med hålrum, s.k. Magatamas, (symbol för långt liv) dekor i relief med inlägningar i kopparlegering, förgyllda och försilvrade detaljer. Mått 7,4x7,5 cm.

Slitage, dekorbortfall.

Proveniens

Property of a private Swedish Collector.

Purchased in 2005, at the Älvsjö Antique Fair, Stockholm.

Övrig information

The tsuba was an essential part of the Japanese sword, the tsuba or handguard protected the samurai’s hand. Tsuba artisans soon produced ornamental styles, which became family heirlooms. Most of these designs reflect the mythology, legends, customs, religion, and artistic side of Japan.

When Japan entered the more peaceful Edo period, from 1603 to 1867, the tsuba became more of an artwork rather than functional tools of war. Without battles to fight, the samurai favored more elaborate designs inspired by mythology, nature, and religion. In this time period, the most complex and ornate sword guards were produced bv tsuba artisans who also started to sign their works.

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