Antique Japanese Edo Period Iron & Gold Nunome Zogan Tsuba Samurai Sword Guard

Antique Japanese Iron & Gold Nunome Zogan Tsuba Edo Period Samurai Sword Guard

Authentic Japanese iron tsuba (samurai sword guard) from the Edo period 18th to 19th century featuring an intricate openwork landscape or waterside scene with gold nunome-zogan inlay accents.

This finely crafted tsuba combines sukashi openwork carving with delicate applied gold decoration depicting flowing reeds, grasses, waves, or shoreline forms. The composition has a distinctly atmospheric quality, with layered plant forms and water motifs rendered in pierced iron and highlighted with surviving gold details.

The iron plate has developed a deep brown-black patina through age and handling. Areas of gold nunome inlay remain visible throughout the design, creating beautiful contrast against the dark iron surface. The reverse retains old copper sekigane inserts at the nakago-ana, showing traditional period adjustment for mounting to a blade.

Mid to late Edo period work in a decorative Shoami or related tosogu tradition. The design displays strong Japanese aesthetic sensibilities with an elegant natural scene rendered in abstract flowing forms.

Condition:
Good antique condition with age-appropriate wear, oxidation, rubbing to gilding, and surface marks consistent with centuries of age and handling. Gold inlay remains partially intact throughout. Please examine photographs carefully for condition and details.

Approximate Measurements:

• Diameter: 3"
• Thickness: 1/4"
• Weight: 12 .oz
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An excellent antique Japanese sword fitting with beautiful openwork carving and surviving gold decoration, ideal for collectors of samurai art, tosogu, and Japanese metalwork.