19th century Iron Tsuba with Hollyhock Design by Masaami School

Iron tsuba with hollyhock design by Masaami school
Date: 19th century
Size: 7.4 x 7.3 x 0.5 cm

The tsuba is usually a round (or occasionally squareish) guard at the end of the grip of bladed Japanese weapons. They contribute to the balance of the weapon and to the protection of the hand. Tsuba are usually finely decorated, and nowadays are collectors' items.