This is an unsigned iron tsuba attributed to Hizen. It features a vertical diamond paulownia crest as the main motif, skillfully arranged with gold inlay arabesques on an aoi mokko-shaped iron ground. The outer rim is also adorned with arabesques, creating a dignified overall design. The front and back designs are harmoniously balanced, showcasing a delicate and refined aesthetic. Although there is slight peeling of the inlay due to age, its antique charm and natural appearance are well-preserved. It passed the Hozon Tosogu examination in Reiwa 8 (2026).
NihontoWatchmumei · Edo
Edo
Hizen
Unsigned
Hozon (NBTHK)
Certifies a genuine fitting worth preserving: a correct signature, or, if unsigned, an identifiable era and school, with recognized artistic and craft value.
The NBTHK (Nihon Bijutsu Tōken Hozon Kyōkai, the Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords) is a public-interest incorporated foundation founded in 1948 and supervised by Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs (Bunkachō); it is based at the Japanese Sword Museum in Tokyo. Its expert panels physically examine each submitted work (shinsa) and issue a certificate (kanteishō) ranking it by artistic and historical merit. NBTHK papers are the most widely recognized standard of authentication for Japanese swords and fittings.
NBTHK official siteDomestic: items may be returned within 7 days in original condition for a full refund (buyer covers transport). Overseas orders: no-refunds, no-returns.
This is an unsigned iron tsuba attributed to Hizen. It features a vertical diamond paulownia crest as the main motif, skillfully arranged with gold inlay arabesques on an aoi mokko-shaped iron ground. The outer rim is also adorned with arabesques, creating a dignified overall design. The front and back designs are harmoniously balanced, showcasing a delicate and refined aesthetic. Although there is slight peeling of the inlay due to age, its antique charm and natural appearance are well-preserved. It passed the Hozon Tosogu examination in Reiwa 8 (2026).
NihontoWatchmumei · Edo
Edo
Hizen
Unsigned
Hozon (NBTHK)
Certifies a genuine fitting worth preserving: a correct signature, or, if unsigned, an identifiable era and school, with recognized artistic and craft value.
The NBTHK (Nihon Bijutsu Tōken Hozon Kyōkai, the Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords) is a public-interest incorporated foundation founded in 1948 and supervised by Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs (Bunkachō); it is based at the Japanese Sword Museum in Tokyo. Its expert panels physically examine each submitted work (shinsa) and issue a certificate (kanteishō) ranking it by artistic and historical merit. NBTHK papers are the most widely recognized standard of authentication for Japanese swords and fittings.
NBTHK official siteDomestic: items may be returned within 7 days in original condition for a full refund (buyer covers transport). Overseas orders: no-refunds, no-returns.