Sword Guard (Tsuba)

Cleveland Museum of Art

Round, flat, metal object with a dark brown patina. The object is a sword guard, known as a tsuba. The tsuba has a circular shape with a latticework design. The latticework pattern features interconnected oval and circular cutouts. A large oval-shaped cutout is in the center. The edge of the tsuba is decorated with a pattern of gold inlays. The gold inlays form elongated, thin shapes, resembling leaves or feathers. The background of the image is dark gray, gradually lightening towards the bottom. The tsuba appears to be made of metal, possibly iron or steel. The overall appearance suggests an antique or traditional Japanese piece. The artist of the tsuba is unknown.