Description

Ryuko-zu Takabori Zogan Tetsu-ji Tsuba As a tsuba, the size is quite magnificent, and it is a well-crafted work with a deep black tetsu-aji. Looking at the design on the omote, the brave dragon and tiger from the zodiac are arranged at the top and bottom, facing each other diagonally across the tsuba. The scene is powerful, showing the dragon appearing amidst deep, dark clouds with a sharp gaze, while the tiger roars from a shore where rough waves driven by the wind draw near. Turning one's eyes to the ura, one can see parts of the dragon's claws and tail not depicted on the omote, and looking below, the water's surface is tossed by rough waves just like the omote, representing the Ryuko design across both sides. Not only are the main subjects of the dragon and tiger skillfully crafted through takabori and zogan, but the depictions of clouds, wind, and waves are also delicately rendered; the cloud portions in particular are made using sukidashi-bori, making this an item that required significant time and effort. Originally, this motif is derived from the Chinese I Ching (Book of Changes) and is known as "Unryu Fuko" (Clouds follow the dragon, wind follows the tiger). Tate × Yoko × Atsusa: 8.4cm × 7.7cm × 0.4cm