Hand guard with monkeys c. 1800 - 1900

This 19th-century hand guard, or tsuba, by the artist Tsunetada is an example of Japanese metalwork. The tsuba, which is made of iron and measures 7.3 cm in height and 7 cm in width, features a design of three monkeys. This piece is a testament to the skill of Japanese metalworkers who crafted these intricate and often decorative pieces. Tsuba were originally designed to protect the hand from the sword's blade, but over time they became highly sought after works of art.