Iron Marugata Tsuba Dragon

Description

ITEM:

It Comes with certificate of SupeinNihonto. Comes with wood box.

Iron Tsuba for Katana – Dragon in Relief (Edo Period)

Iron mokkō-gata tsuba forged from a solid plate and decorated in high relief with a sinuous dragon that travels along the right and lower perimeter. The carving shows convincing volume, well-defined scales, and confident chisel work consistent with hand craftsmanship of the period.

The iron surface displays a mature, naturally developed dark patina with stable oxidation and wear appropriate to genuine age, lacking the uniform appearance typical of modern reproductions. The ji treatment and iron density are coherent with Edo-period work.

At the upper area, a flowing inlaid line in golden-toned metal (likely brass or thin gold overlay) adds visual contrast—an ornamental device seen in many late Edo decorative iron traditions to emphasize atmospheric or energetic elements associated with the dragon motif.

The seppa-dai is properly defined and functional. The nakago-ana shows hand-finished adjustment, accompanied by irregularly shaped hitsu-ana characteristic of traditional workmanship. The reverse bears an incised two-character inscription in stylized script.

Based on typology, carving quality, iron character, and ornamental language, the piece is confidently attributable to the Edo period (17th–19th century), likely within a decorative iron tradition influenced by late Kyō-sukashi taste or related dragon-themed schools.

Conclusion: an authentic Edo iron tsuba with strong sculptural presence and attractive iron character, well suited for katana koshirae mounting or advanced collection.

8,5 x 7,9 cm

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