Antique Japanese Samurai Iron Tsuba Sword Hilt Etched Peach Blossom Design

This is an antique Japanese Edo period (c.1596-1868) tsuba (handguard) for a This tsuba was affixed to a sword worn by a samurai during or before the mid Meiji period (the wearing of swords except by officials was banned in 1876) and was used or practiced with. There are signs of wear and oxidation in between the outer rim edge where trapped moisture from the hands from regular use and practice collects. The outer rim is smooth and less corroded from repeated handling and rubbing against the samurai kimono and obi. The Nakago (blade hole) has front and back bronze or copper "sekigane" (a softer metal applied to the top and bottom of the nakago after forging to get a better fit and for shock absorption) indicating further that the tsuba was affixed to a working sword. The tsuba is made with typical forged steel and is in the shape of a maruogata cut straight through in the design of a peach blossom. A beautiful example of samurai craftsmanship. It measures about 2 3/4" (7 cm) in diameter and 1/4" (.5cm) thick. Having been lovingly and carefully displayed by 3 generations of collectors, it remains in fine condition.