Sword Guard (<i>Tsuba</i>)

Kawamura Tsuneshige

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

A tsuba is a sword guard and part of a sword mounting. It is mounted between the sword’s blade and grip to protect the user’s hands. The decoration on this example is very well done, being skillfully executed and imaginitive in its design. It can be considered one of Tsuneshige's masterpieces. The Nara school, to which Tsuneshige belonged, is not generally known for the quality of its work, making the high quality of this piece all the more exceptional.

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