When was "Sword Guard (Tsuba)" created?

This artwork was created 18th century.

What medium is "Sword Guard (Tsuba)"?

Sword Guard (Tsuba) is Brass, copper-gold alloy (shakudō), gold, copper.

Is "Sword Guard (Tsuba)" in the public domain?

Yes, Sword Guard (Tsuba) is in the public domain and available for free download under CC0 license.

Sword Guard (Tsuba)

Unknown Artist

18th century

Medium

Brass, copper-gold alloy (shakudō), gold, copper

Dimensions

L. 3 1/2 in. (8.9 cm); W. 3 in. (7.6 cm); thickness 3/16 in. (0.5 cm); Wt. 5.6 oz. (158.8 g)

Classification

Sword Furniture-Tsuba

Culture

Japanese

Department

Arms and Armor

Museum

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY

Credit

H. O. Havemeyer Collection, Bequest of Mrs. H. O. Havemeyer, 1929

Accession Number

29.100.959

Tags

Dragons

Art Historical Context

This elegant 18th-century Japanesetsuba* (sword guard) served as a crucial component of the samurai sword, protecting the hand while showcasing the wearer's status through intricate artistry. Crafted during the Edo period—a time of relative peace when martial arts evolved into refined cultural expressions—these guards transformed from mere utility into miniature sculptures, blending functionality with aesthetic splendor. Measuring about 3.5 inches, this example exemplifies the meticulous metalworking traditions of Japanese sword fittings. Forged from brass, shakudō (a copper-gold alloy prized...

Sword Guard (Tsuba)

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