Sword Guard (<i>Tsuba</i>) Depicting Heron on Boat (一路平安図鐔) 1720 - 1770

This circular iron sword guard, or *tsuba*, created by the renowned Japanese artist Shōzui between 1720 and 1770, depicts a heron standing on a boat beneath a crescent moon with a gold-leaf design. The intricate detail and use of gold and silver inlays create a visual dialogue between the delicate bird and the moon, while the waves at the bottom of the *tsuba* suggest movement and a journey. The *tsuba* is a decorative element of a Japanese sword, acting as a guard for the hand and adding an artistic element to the weapon. It is currently on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.