Hand guard 1868 - 1900

This hand guard, or *tsuba*, was created by Kanaya Gorosaburo between 1868 and 1900. Made of brass, it features an intricate design of a blossoming flower and falling petals, etched into the surface. *Tsuba* are traditionally used to protect the hand from the sword’s blade during combat, but they also function as decorative elements of the sword. The delicate design of this *tsuba* exemplifies the craftsmanship and artistic expression found in Japanese sword fittings.