A TSUBA WITH A HOJU AND A DRAGON
Iron and gildingJapan, 18th-19th centuryOf octagonal and slightly rounded form with ryohitsu and with a raised rim, strongly faded details due to rust patina from age, a gilt hoju no tama (mythic-sacred pearl) to the mid upper section and volutes in shape of a dragon tail on the left, the lower section is faded but was formerly decorated possibly with a dragon on the right, the reverse shows twirling clouds and traces of gilt nunome. Dimensions: HEIGHT 7.9 CMCondition: Good conditionProvenance: Collection of Dr. Karl Florenz