Sword Guard (Tsuba)
Gotō Mitsuakira (1816–1856) was the sixteenth generation master of the main line of the renowned Gotō School of sword fitting makers. The decoration of this tsuba features Fukurokuju, the Shinto god of happiness, wealth, and longevity, with a stag. The fineness of the engraving distinguishes it as one of Mitsuakira’s masterpieces.
Artwork Details
- Title: Sword Guard (Tsuba)
- Fittings maker: Inscribed by Gotō Mitsuakira (Japanese, 1816–1856)
- Date: 19th century
- Culture: Japanese
- Medium: Copper-gold alloy (shakudō), gold, silver, copper
- Dimensions: H. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm); W. 2 9/16 in. (6.5 cm); thickness 5/16 in. (0.8 cm); Wt. 4.4 oz. (124.7 g)
- Classification: Sword Furniture-Tsuba
- Credit Line: Gift of the Baber Family, in loving memory of Charles Chenault Baber, 2012
- Object Number: 2012.528.3
- Curatorial Department: Arms and Armor
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