鍔 tsuba (sword guard) with lobster, Tsu Jinpo

Artwork Overview

Tsu Jinpo, 鍔 tsuba (sword guard) with lobster
Tsu Jinpo, 鍔 tsuba (sword guard) with lobster
Tsu Jinpo
鍔 tsuba (sword guard) with lobster
Edo period (1600–1868)
鍔 tsuba (sword guard) with lobster, Edo period (1600–1868)
Where object was made: Japan
Material/technique: gold inlay; iron; piercing
Credit line: William Bridges Thayer Memorial
Accession number: 1928.2287
On display: Loo Gallery
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Archive Label 2003: Nanako is a pattern of small granulations used to decorate metal surfaces. The nanako ground on this sword guard provides a grainy bed for the primary decoration, a gilded lobster in high relief. The lobster (ebi) in Japan is an auspicious symbol of longevity and good fortune. The carrier of the sword with this guard would have welcomed this symbolism.