Sword Guard (Tsuba)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Japanese sword guard with a dark brown patina. The guard features a scene with four individuals. Two figures on the left and right sides have long hair; both wear headbands with a gold stripe. The figure on the left sits on the ground with legs folded to one side; wears a kimono with a patterned design; and has one arm resting on their knee. The figure on the right wears a kimono with a gold stripe; sits on the ground with their legs tucked under their body; resting their elbow on their knee and their hand on their face; and holds a bow and quiver on their back. A third figure, partially visible at the bottom, appears to wear a helmet with a crest and a patterned kimono. A fourth figure's head is visible behind the third. The guard has two oval openings and one elongated opening.