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Katana Hand Guard
This katana hand guard, dating from the Edo period (19th century), is attributed to the Kinko school and is unsigned. Crafted in the Mokko shape, it is made from shakudō, an alloy of gold and copper. The tsuba is beautifully adorned with intricate designs of gold and silver, depicting shi-shi lions and butterflies playfully frolicking amidst peonies. A notable addition to this composition is a delicate silver waterfall, enhancing the natural theme. Copper sekigane are inserted into the nakagō hitsu ana, suggesting that the tsuba was once mounted on a sword.
Age: Edo period 19th century
Medium: Copper-gold alloy (shakudō), copper, gold, silver
School: Edo Kinko (possibly Ishiguro)
Provenance: Private collection in the United Kingdom
Dimensions:
Shipping: Worldwide / Fully Insured / Import Duty: DDP – We pay the duty!
The outer rim is elevated with a raised fukurin, adding depth to the design while accentuating the relief. The surface is covered with a fine nanako pattern, adding texture and visual interest. Both the kozuka hitsu ana and kôgai hitsu ana remain unblocked, preserving the tsuba’s original functionality.
Kiri wood storage box included.