Zwaardstootplaat

About this artwork

On loan from the Royal Asian Art Society in The Netherlands (Westendorp-Osieck bequest, 1968)

Art Historical Context

Behold the intricate *Zwaardstootplaat* (Dutch for "sword thrust plate"), a masterful iron tsuba—orguard—crafted by Japanese artisan Munemasa Shinoda between 1800 and1900. Measuring a compact 9 cm high, 8.7 cm wide, and 1.5 cm deep, this delicate yet robust piece was designed to protect the wielder's hand on a samurai sword, exemplifying the fusion of utility and artistry in Edo- and early Meiji-period Japan. Forged from iron, a favored medium for tsuba due to its durability and workability, Shinoda's creation highlights the technical prowess of Japanese metalworkers. These guards often featu...