Tsuba - large floral Owari 80,9 mm ! - NBTHK Hozon OWARI

This tsuba is an excellent representative work of the Owari school, forged in iron with a robust circular plate and clearly defined sukashi (openwork). The design features a symmetrical arrangement of stylized floral forms—likely inspired by plum or wild chrysanthemum blossoms—rendered with the strong, clean lines characteristic of early Owari workmanship. The rim (mimi) is slightly raised and rounded, displaying the typical solidity of Owari iron, while the openwork shows deliberate, confident cutouts with minimal taper, reflecting precise chisel work.

The plate surface exhibits a fine, deep, dark patina, a hallmark of classic Owari pieces from the late Muromachi to early Edo period. The seppa-dai is oval and somewhat narrow, consistent with regional style, and the hitsu-ana openings are either absent or small, as is common for the school’s early production. The overall composition balances geometric structure with organic floral elements, giving the piece both strength and elegance.

How Typical Is This Style for Owari?

Florally themed sukashi designs are quite typical for the Owari school. While Owari tsuba are often associated with bold geometric patterns (crosses, interlocking circles, wheel motifs), floral motifs—especially stylized blossoms or petal patterns—also appear frequently. What makes the style recognizably Owari is:

Strong, thick iron plate with dense texture

Balanced, symmetrical openwork with clear structure

High-quality forging and cleanly cut sukashi

Rounded rim with substantial strength

Elegant but restrained motifs avoiding excessive decoration

For NBTHK Hozon, this level of workmanship, iron quality, and stylistic clarity fits well within what is commonly certified as genuine Owari-school manufacture.

Dimensions 80,7 mm x 80,9 mm x 5,2 mm ( 5,1 mm), 90,1 g