Hand guard 1700 - 1800

This hand guard, or tsuba, was created by the artist Teimei from iron. It's decorated with gold and silver inlays, and was designed as a functional component of a sword. What might seem like a simple piece of metalwork is actually the result of a highly skilled process. The iron would have been carefully forged and shaped, requiring a deep understanding of the material's properties. The inlays of gold and silver are also noteworthy; these elements were likely hammered into the surface with incredible precision, demanding incredible skill and training. Consider the importance of the sword in Japanese society, and the ways in which skilled artisans contributed to its cultural significance. The hand guard is an example of how craft traditions extended beyond purely decorative arts, embedding themselves within systems of power and social order. It's a reminder that even the most functional objects can be imbued with artistry and meaning.