Sword guard (<i>Tsuba</i>) Depicting Crests and Arabesques (家紋散唐草文鐔) 1575 - 1615

This circular *tsuba*, or sword guard, is a work by Koike Izumi no Kami Naomasa, a Japanese metalworker active in the late 16th and early 17th centuries. The *tsuba* is decorated with a repeating pattern of stylized floral designs and "mon" (family crests), crafted with meticulous detail and inlaid with gold. The inscription at the top reads "Koike Izumi no Kami Naomasa," indicating the maker's name. The *tsuba* is a testament to the skilled artistry of the Edo period, showcasing the intricate designs and craftsmanship that were valued in Japanese swordmaking.