| A finely forged iron tsuba boldly pierced in openwork with the “Tsurumaru” design, depicting a single crane spreading its wings to form a circle. The long, extended neck and head are simply yet elegantly rendered, while each feather, from the outstretched wings to the tail, is skillfully formed in fine linear openwork. The neatly overlapping feathers create a refined circular composition, while the rim is notched and pointed in harmony with the divisions of the feathers, emphasizing the powerful character of the iron. The workmanship differs from the graceful and uniform style traditionally associated with Kyo-sukashi and also calls to mind Akasaka or Tosa Myochin. However, the Tsurumaru design is also known among Higo metalworkers, and the strong character of the iron, skillful openwork, and regularly applied adjustment chisel marks around the nakago-ana strongly suggest Higo workmanship. An attractive tsuba depicting the auspicious crane in a refined composition through the harmonious combination of powerful iron and intricate openwork. |
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