| The asanoha (hemp-leaf) pattern is a traditional Japanese geometric design composed of interconnected regular hexagonal forms resembling hemp leaves. Because hemp grows rapidly and straight, the pattern symbolizes healthy growth, while its vigorous vitality and sacred associations have also made it an auspicious motif believed to ward off evil. This tsuba is of round form with a polished iron ground. A finely executed openwork asanoha pattern runs continuously around the outer area, while the rim is decorated with a linked-diamond pattern in gold nunome-zogan. The precisely arranged geometric openwork contrasts beautifully with the fine yokan-colored iron and the gold decoration on the rim, creating an elegant and sophisticated design. Judging from the intricate geometric openwork and the refined decoration of the rim, this tsuba is thought to be a work of the Bushu Ito school from around the late Edo period. |
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