| Owari tsuba were iron openwork sword guards produced in Owari Province during the late Muromachi period. They are characterized by tightly forged iron, symmetrical compositions, and a distinctive construction in which the central area around the seppa-dai is slightly lower than the rim, known as nakabiku. Prominent iron bones (tekkotsu) appearing along the rim are another notable feature. Compared with the delicate and elegant openwork of Kyo-sukashi tsuba, Owari tsuba are more robust and practical, reflecting their emphasis on functionality in combat and their strong, unadorned beauty. This tsuba features a bold and rugged openwork design combining karigane (wild geese) with a weighing balance. The tsuba passed the NBTHK Hozon Tosogu shinsa in 2018. |
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