Iron Sukashi TsubaIron Old Armorer Muromachi era 1400s with NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Tosogu

This tsuba has been certified as a “Special Preservation Sword Fittings” by the Japan Art Sword Preservation Association.

Height: 93.2 mm
Width: 93.8 mm
Thickness at the blade guard base: 2.4 mm
Thickness at the ear: 7.0 mm

Made by an armorer of the Muromachi period, the base metal is forged thin, while the ears are crafted thick and sturdy in contrast.

The “Chinese flowers” motif does not refer to any specific flower but represents flowers originating from China in general.
The “tomoe” is depicted as a triple tomoe.
The “kakusaru” motif is said to symbolize restraining desire by binding the monkey, a symbol of desire.

It is said that it is only natural that armor makers, who craft helmets to protect the human head,
are highly valued for their craftsmanship.