https://emuseum.cornell.edu/internal/media/dispatcher/71714/fullTsuba with design of gourds, double squares, stylized mon and plantsMuromachi period, late 16th century3 1/4 x 3 1/8 inches (8.3 x 8 cm)IronMemorial gift from the Estate of Charles W. Hay, Class of 192573.005.0310The design is a helter-skelter coverage, in the chinese manner, of cut outs of gourds and double squares, geometric figures, stylized mon, and plants in zogan. The background was originally peppered with brass dots but most of this, as well as the brass inlay of the mon charaters, has been lost. The design, as well as indications of use and wear, point to great age in this piece.Armor1900629305Unidentified artistJapanBRIEF DESCRIPTION
This is a sword guard from a samurai sword.
WHERE WAS IT MADE?
This item was made in Japan during the late 16th century.
HOW WAS IT MADE?
This tsuba was handcrafted from iron. Small pieces of cast brass were inlaid into carved recesses in the iron.
HOW WAS IT USED?
The tsuba, or sword guard, lies between the hilt and the blade of a samurai sword. The tsbua served to prevent the hand from sliding down the hilt and onto the blade during combat. It consists of an obverse (front) and reverse side. The obverse side is the one that would face the opponent, while the reverse side would come in contact with the hand of the user. For this reason, traditionally tsuba were kept smooth on the reverse side.
WHY DOES IT LOOK LIKE THIS?
The technique of combining iron and brass was developed during the Onin era (1467-1469) in the Muromachi period; twentieth century historians use the term “onin” tsuba to describe this particular style of manufacture.
Two of the cut-out forms on the tsuba seem to resemble bottle-gourds, a symbol of longevity. The circular forms etched into both sides may be a family crest, or mon: emblems which identify a particular family, much in the way that a coat of arms might have done in Europe during the Middle Ages.
Notice the shape of the central hole of the tsuba; it permitted the blade of the sword to pass through. Frequently one or two secondary holes are seen on tsuba; these were made to accommodate other small sword fittings, the kozuka (a small utility knife) and the kogai (a small hairdressing tool shaped like a skewer.)
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