Type: Tsuba Material: Copper with mixed metal inlay Mass: 117.5 g
This finely carved tsuba depicts a dynamic scene of swallows darting above crashing waves. The birds are gilt, and their legs are gold wire inlay. Their forms in flight suggesting both freedom and vitality; a popular Edo-period motif symbolizing perseverance and the return of spring. Below, the stylized waves roll in deep relief, their crests accented with small gold inlay that evokes sea spray under sunlight.
Signed Ōmori Teruhide (大森英秀) on the seppa-dai, this work showcases the influence of the Ōmori school of Edo, renowned for their mastery of wave carving (nami sukashi) and richly detailed marine themes. The dark, textured patina of the plate contrasts elegantly with the warm metallic highlights, lending the piece both movement and serenity.
