Edo period (1615-1868), an iron mokko shaped shakudo tsuba (sword guard) used to protect the hands from sliding onto the bade of a Japanese sword, lavishly decorated on both sides with shakudo flora to edges and insects to interior, with three holes to center: kozuka hitsu-ana, nakago-ana, and kogai hitsu-ana, a stunning example of the elegant fine artisan crafting of a warrior's weapon in Japan.

2 5/8 x 2 1/2 in.

Good estate condition; some nicks to inside edges of central sword fitting.