Sword Guard (Tsuba)
Unknown Artist
18th century
Medium
Iron, copper
Dimensions
H. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm); W. 2 1/8 in. (5.4 cm); thickness 3/16 in. (0.5 cm); Wt. 1.9 oz. (53.9 g)
Classification
Sword Furniture-Tsuba
Culture
Japanese
Department
Arms and Armor
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Mrs. Adrian H. Joline, 1914
Accession Number
14.60.49
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite 18th-century Japanese guard, or *tsuba*, served as a vital component of the samurai sword's fittings, protecting the hand from an opponent's blade while allowing fluid movement. Crafted during the Edo period time of relative peace when martial arts emphasized artistry over warfare—*tsuba* evolved from functional guards into highly prized decorative objects. Often exchanged as gifts or heirlooms, they showcased the wearer's taste and status, blending utility with aesthetic refinement. Made of iron with copper accents, this compact piece measures just 2¾ inches high and weighs un...