- Tsuba - large Kyo Sukashi - motive Bamboo-snow 84,3mm ! - NBTHK Hozon to Shoami

This elegant Kyo-sukashi tsuba is crafted from iron and features a finely executed bamboo-in-winter motif, a traditional theme symbolizing resilience, purity, and quiet strength. Slender bamboo stalks rise through the composition, their leaves rendered in delicate openwork (sukashi). The artist skillfully uses negative space to create a sense of balance and lightness, characteristic of Kyoto workmanship.

The guard has a softly contoured, almost lobed outline that enhances the natural flow of the pierced design. Its dark, mature patina highlights the age of the piece and the refinement of its craftsmanship. Certified with NBTHK Hozon, the tsuba is attributed to the Shoami school, confirming both its authenticity and its artistic significance.

Since I am adressing this motive for many years now I can clearly say that over generatons this has been a Shomai-related motive. I assume this to be made in Kyoto so Kyo-Sukashi might be another well fitting attribution.

With dimensions of 81.9 × 84.3 mm and a thickness of 4.9 mm, the tsuba has a substantial yet graceful presence. Weighing 84.7 g, it combines functional solidity with aesthetic elegance, making it a compelling example of classical Kyo-sukashi work.

Dimensions 81,9 mm x 84,3 mm x 4,9 mm (4,9 mm), 84,7 g