Sword Guard (Tsuba)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Brown metal sword guard with a roughly circular shape and rounded scalloped edges; two oval-shaped holes on either side of a central keystone-shaped hole. The surface has a dark brown patina and displays signs of wear and aging, with visible scratches and areas of lighter-colored metal showing through. Small flecks of gold or brass inlays are scattered across the surface. A design resembling a tied package or bow is centered between the oval and keystone-shaped holes. The background is plain gray. Sword Guard (Tsuba) by Unknown.