Sword Guard (Tsuba) With the Motif of Chrysanthemums and Butterfly (菊と蝶図鐔)

19th century

Not on view

The motif area inside of the raised rim of this tsuba is engraved in an arabesque pattern (karakusa). The obverse is decorated with the relief of a large swallowtail butterfly (Japanese: ageha-chō, 揚羽蝶) which is decorated in various precious metals. The reverse shows chrysanthemums whose flowers are inlaid in copper, gold, and shibuichi. Parts of the leaves and the dewdrops are highlighted in gold.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Sword Guard (Tsuba) With the Motif of Chrysanthemums and Butterfly (菊と蝶図鐔)
Date: 19th century
Culture: Japanese
Medium: Iron, gold, copper, silver-copper alloy (shibuichi)
Dimensions: H. 3 5/16 in. (8.4 cm); W. 3 in. (7.6 cm); thickness 3/16 in. (0.5 cm); Wt. 6.5 oz. (184.3 g)
Classification: Sword Furniture-Tsuba
Credit Line: Edward C. Moore Collection, Bequest of Edward C. Moore, 1891
Object Number: 91.1.764
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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