Sword Guard (Tsuba) in the Japanese Style

late 17th–early 18th century

Not on view

This sword guard is comparable in design and workmanship to examples from Korea, particularly certain Hwando (military swords) from the Joseon Dynasty (15th to 19th centuries). Korean and other Southeast Asian swords were influenced by Japanese swords. Due to the close similarity of this guard with Japanese sword guards (tsuba), it can be seen as a reference point in the study of cultural and artistic inter-Asian influences.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Sword Guard (Tsuba) in the Japanese Style
Date: late 17th–early 18th century
Culture: Korean
Medium: Iron, silver
Dimensions: H. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm); W. 2 9/16 in. (6.5 cm); thickness 3/16 in. (0.5 cm); Wt. 4.5 oz. (128 g)
Classification: Sword Furniture-Tsuba
Credit Line: Gift of James Lancel McElhinney, 2019
Object Number: 2019.163.2
Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor

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