Exceptional Edo Period Bowl-Shaped Tsuba – Cloud & Dragon Motif, Iron, Gold & Silver Inlay
This is a rare and outstanding bowl-shaped tsuba (wan-gata tsuba) from the Edo period, featuring a cloud and dragon (unryū) motif in refined gold and silver inlay. The quality of the iron is excellent, with a lustrous patina that enhances the depth of the surface.
Notably, this piece has an exaggerated domed shape (over 1.2 cm in curvature), rarely seen in extant examples. It recalls the aesthetics of fine Hizen school workmanship, though the piece is unsigned (mumei).
Highlights:
Bowl-shaped iron tsuba (wan-gata) with cloud and dragon motif
Intricate gold and silver inlay
Deep curvature (approx. 1.2 cm dome height)
Excellent craftsmanship and iron quality
Includes wooden kiribako (storage box; note: missing center plug)
Dimensions:
Height: approx. 8.40 cm / 3.31 in
Width: approx. 8.24 cm / 3.24 in
Thickness (at seppadai): approx. 0.34 cm / 0.13 in
Dome curvature: approx. 1.2 cm / 0.47 in
Weight: approx. 128.8 g / 4.54 oz
Additional Information:
Period: Edo period (1603–1868)
Material: Iron with gold & silver inlay
Signature: Unsigned (mumei)
Condition: Very good overall; minimal wear from age.
The included wooden box is missing the center plug.
Please refer to the photos for further details.
A rare and exquisite piece that would make a standout addition to any Japanese sword fittings collection.
| Item Specific | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Tsuba (Sword Guard) |
| Region of Origin | Japan |
| Age | Edo Period |
| Primary Material | Iron |
| Features | Bowl-shaped, Cloud & Dragon Design, Gold/Silver Inlay |
| Signature | Unsigned (Mumei) |
| Height | 8.40 cm / 3.31 in |
| Width | 8.24 cm / 3.24 in |
| Thickness | 0.34 cm / 0.13 in (at seppadai) |
| Dome Curvature | approx. 1.2 cm / 0.47 in |
| Weight | 128.8 g / 4.54 oz |
| Condition | Very good; age-consistent wear |
| Storage Box | Included (Wooden Kiribako, no center plug) |
| Mount Type | Katana / Wakizashi compatible |
| Theme | Unryū (Cloud Dragon), Samurai Art |
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