Tsuba with Black Lacquered Surface and Gilded Rim Decoration

Tsuba with Black Lacquered Surface and Gilded Rim Decoration

This elegant tsuba presents a refined example of meticulous most probably Edo-period metal craftsmanship. Its overall form is slightly oval, featuring soft, flowing contours. The guard is crafted from a non-magnetic metal—most likely a copper-based non-magnetic alloy.

The even shine suggests the possibility of an applied lacquer or a thin enamel-like coating (urushi black lacquer on metal was occasionally used on luxury fittings).

Face and Field Decoration

The central field surrounding the nakago-ana is decorated with a fine nanako texture—tiny, evenly punched hemispherical dots. This texture was traditionally used on high-quality fittings to create a silk-like granular surface that contrasts beautifully with the polished central silhouette.

The inner silhouette surrounding the opening is shaped in an irregular, cloud-like contour, adding visual softness to the otherwise precise geometry. The polished interior stands out sharply against the nanako background, emphasizing visual depth and possibly craftsmanship.

Gilded Rim (Fukurin) with Detailed Carving

One of the most striking features of this tsuba is its richly decorated, gilded rim. The rim is covered with a continuous band of relief carving depicting organic motifs—likely stylized foliage, blossoms, and clusters of leaves. These designs are rendered in high relief, with crisp detailing and dynamic textures. The gold layer appears to be a traditional gilding technique such as kin-kise, kin-zōgan, or merely applied gold foil, though the refined finish suggests professional work rather than later embellishment.

The rim itself is slightly raised, measuring up to 7.5 mm at its thickest point, giving the piece a strong frame and enhancing the luxurious contrast between the dark body and the bright gold ornament.

Construction and Style

The combination of nanako texture, polished interior silhouette, and gilded rim suggests production by a skilled decorative ironworker or a specialist in soft-metal fittings.

The careful craftsmanship and ornate gold work are reminiscent of styles linked to late Edo-period schools such as Mito, Satsuma, or possibly a branch of the Goto tradition, though no specific attribution can be confirmed without signatures or further context.

Overall Impression

This tsuba is distinguished by its sophisticated interplay between dark, glossy surfaces and vivid gilded ornamentation. The floral and foliate motifs on the rim provide a sense of motion and richness, while the subdued central field maintains balance and harmony. The piece embodies both aesthetic refinement and technical mastery, making it a notable example of high-grade sword furniture.

It is an exceptional decorative tsuba with uncommon surface treatment, likely produced for a high-status mount or as a luxury fitting rather than a purely utilitarian guard.

I am still puzzled about the details, so I can not give any guarantee.

Dimension 69,6 mm x 73,5 mm x ca. 2,0 mm (7,5 mm) 127,4 g