Sword Guard (Tsuba)
Unknown Artist
18th century
Medium
Iron, copper
Dimensions
H. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm); W. 2 5/8 in. (6.7 cm); thickness 3/16 in. (0.5 cm); Wt. 3.3 oz. (93.6 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
14.60.34
Art Historical Context
This finely crafted Sword Guard, known as a *tsuba*, originates from 18th-century Japan and exemplifies the masterful sword fittings of the Arms and Armor tradition. As a protective hand guard on a samurai sword, the *tsuba* bridged utility and artistry, shielding the wielder while serving as a canvas for skilled metalworkers. During Japan's Edo period, such pieces were essential accessories, often customized to reflect social status and aesthetic refinement. Made of iron with copper accents, this *tsuba* measures 2¾ inches (7 cm) in height, 2⅝ inches (6.7 cm) in width, and just 3/16 inch (0....