Hand guard 1775 - 1900

This hand guard, or tsuba, was crafted by the Hamana-school, and its design offers a glimpse into the values of the samurai class. The imagery of birds, clouds, and a boat are not merely decorative; they are deeply symbolic. In Japanese culture, such motifs are tied to themes of nature, freedom, and the transient beauty of life. This piece invites us to consider the samurai's world, where nature and mindfulness were important elements of their philosophical and ethical code. The hand guard is a reminder of the complex relationship between violence and beauty. It's a visual representation of a life lived on the edge, where the sharpness of the blade meets the serenity of contemplation.