Japanese forged iron Tsuba, or sword guard, hand crafted in the restrained and functional style typical of the Kanayama school. Likely mid-to-late Edo (18th – early 19th century)
Tsuba were functional items used to protect the user's hands from the blade and were also important status symbols for samurai during the Edo period (1615-1868).
Oval in shape with refined openwork and symmetrical abstract motifs. The surface has an aged dark patina with oxidation marks consistent with its age. The rim shows slight irregularities, compatible with hand-forging techniques.
Measures 2 3/4".
10824-71
