Five Hand Guards (tsuba), Hiroyasu, 1800 - 1850

Five Hand Guards (tsuba), Hiroyasu, 1800 - 1850

gold (metal), h 6.4cm × w 6cm More details

The small surface of the hand guard offers a fine challenge to fit a composition in a limited format. Figures along the border or in reserves often serve to lend the decoration a narrative character. The depictions are enlivened with silver, gold, or bronze accents.