Sword Guard (<i>Tsuba</i>) 1651 - 1727

This iron sword guard, or *tsuba*, was made in Japan by Shōami Denbei, who lived from 1650 to 1750. Look closely, and you’ll see it’s not just a flat disc. The artist painstakingly forged and carved it, creating a radiating pattern reminiscent of chrysanthemum petals. Notice how the material itself dictates the form. The iron is strong, allowing for these delicate, openwork designs, but also heavy, giving the *tsuba* a substantial feel. The making of a *tsuba* was no simple task. It involved specialized knowledge of metallurgy, forging, and decorative techniques. These skills were often passed down through generations, representing a significant investment of time and training. Thinking about the labor involved, we realize that even a seemingly functional object like a sword guard can be a testament to human ingenuity, skill, and the enduring power of craft traditions. It challenges our assumptions about art, reminding us that beauty and meaning can be found even in the most unexpected places.