Type: Tsuba Material: Iron with gold and mixed-metal inlay Mass: 154.7 g Signature: Unsigned
This kaku-maru-gata (rounded square) iron tsuba features a dynamic design of a powerfully mountainous landscape rendered in fine gold nunome-zōgan inlay. Reverent praying figures rendered in inlays of copper and silver bow to the mountains.
The plate is robust and substantial, forged with a dense, even iron grain bearing a dark brown-black patina. The gold inlay is done in nunome-zōgan, much of it still intact, particularly along the right side and lower perimeter. The small copper and silver details remain well-seated, adding contrast and highlighting the craftsman’s restraint in composition. Despite surface wear and mild pitting, the tsuba retains a commanding presence; a fine balance of utility and subtle luxury characteristic of Edo-period fittings.
