| A thick, finely forged iron tsuba boldly pierced in openwork with stylized wild geese linked in four directions, forming the design known as Shihō Karigane-tsunagi. Particularly noteworthy is the treatment along the rim. The inner edge is deeply carved away, emphasizing the thick rounded rim and giving the bold iron openwork a powerful three-dimensional effect. This type of carving is characteristic of Akasaka tsuba. Although similar techniques can also be found in the work of Sado metalworkers and Tosa Myochin, the thick and substantial construction, powerful character of the iron, and well-ordered composition of the design extending in four directions strongly suggest Akasaka workmanship. A simple yet powerful tsuba that emphasizes the sculptural beauty created by the substantial thickness of the iron and bold openwork. |
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