When was "Sword Guard (Tsuba)" created?

This artwork was created possibly 18th century.

What medium is "Sword Guard (Tsuba)"?

Sword Guard (Tsuba) is Iron, gold, silver.

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

possibly 18th century

Medium

Iron, gold, silver

Dimensions

H. 3 3/16 in. (8.1 cm); W. 3 in. (7.6 cm); thickness 3/16 in. (0.5 cm); Wt. 4.3 oz. (121.9 g)

Classification

Sword Furniture-Tsuba

Culture

Japanese

Department

Arms and Armor

Museum

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY

Credit

Gift of Bashford Dean, 1919

Accession Number

19.154.17

Tags

Human Figures

Art Historical Context

This exquisite **Sword Guard (Tsuba)**, crafted possibly in 18th-century Japan, served as a vital protective element on samurai swords like the katana. Positioned between the blade and handle, the tsuba shielded the wielder's hand while doubling as a canvas for artistic expression. Made of iron inlaid with gold and silver, its compact form—measuring just 3 3/16 inches high and weighing 4.3 ounces—exemplifies the precision of Japanese metalworking during the Edo period, when sword fittings evolved from functional guards into status symbols blending utility and beauty. The design likely feature...

Sword Guard (Tsuba)

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