Type: Tsuba Material: Iron with copper inlay Estimated Age: Late Edo period (19th century) Mass: 90.8 g Signature: Unsigned
A round iron maru-gata tsuba with a delicate combination of openwork (sukashi) and inlay, depicting a butterfly hovering above wildflowers. The surface is textured with a fine russet patina, giving the piece a quiet, earthy dignity. The butterfly, crafted in contrasting metals, symbolizes transformation and grace, while the blossom represents renewal and endurance. Together they evoke the transience of spring and the enduring strength of beauty in adversity, themes deeply rooted in Edo-period aesthetics.
