Sword Guard (Tsuba) 18th century

This 18th century "Sword Guard (Tsuba)" by Minayama Ōki (1701-1800) depicts two crows in flight, their wings forming a circle around a central oval. The detailed carving of the feathers creates a sense of movement and dynamism, highlighting the elegant craftsmanship of the artist. This intricately detailed metalwork, housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to the artistry and skill of Japanese swordsmiths during the Edo period.