Sword Guard (<i>Tsuba</i>) with the Carp and Seaweed Motif (藻鯉図鐔) 1868

This 1868 sword guard (tsuba), crafted by Kansai, is a beautiful example of Japanese metalwork. The tsuba, which is a decorative guard for the sword, features a striking image of a carp swimming amongst seaweed, meticulously rendered in gold and black. This design evokes the traditional Japanese imagery of the carp as a symbol of perseverance and strength, while the seaweed represents the carp's watery habitat. The intricate details and skillful craftsmanship of this piece showcase the high level of artistry of the Edo period in Japan. The tsuba is currently part of the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.