Sword Guard (<i>Tsuba</i>) Depicting Plum Tree (梅樹図鐔)

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The obverse of this tsuba is almost entirely occupied by blossoming branches of a plum tree whereas the reverse is left undecorated with the exception of a single plum branch. Plum blossoms and buds are highlighted via gold and copper iroe.

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.

Metropolitan Museum of Art