The John Bannister Collection - D-Day and Militaria
Lot 2293:
Description
This lot features two distinct Japanese sword guards (tsuba) representing different functional and decorative traditions. The larger item is a classic iron Mokko-gata (four-lobed) tsuba featuring an elegant Sukashi (openwork) design; its heavy patina and construction are typical of Edo-period workmanship intended for practical use. The smaller tsuba is crafted from a “white metal” alloy—likely a base metal or a low-purity silver-toned alloy—as evidenced by its lighter color and the dull resonance when struck, which is characteristic of cast soft metals rather than forged steel. This decorative piece is adorned with relief-carved cherry blossoms (Sakura) and fruit, motifs common in late Edo to Meiji-era civil mounts. The iron tsuba shows significant surface oxidation and a deep, dark patina, while the white metal piece exhibits moderate surface wear, scattered scratches, and some darkening in the recessed areas of the carving. H 3″, W 2.75″, D 0.2″ (Iron); H 2.75″, W 2.25″, D 0.15″ (White Metal). See photos.
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