Description:

JAPANESE SAMURAI SWORD TSUBA AND KOGAI
A stunning Japanese relic from the Edo period, a round tsuba, 3 in. dia. Initially craftsmen were only concerned with functionality when it came to the tsuba, to ensure the balance of the sword and protection of the swordsman's hand. However, that all changed during the Edo period, a time of peace and appreciation of the arts, which led to a rise in ornamental tsubas. This particular piece does not disappoint, featuring a black patina with intricate designs and gold embellishments. The imagery consists of Japanese foo lions frolicking among chrysanthemums. The gold adorns the three lions and the tops of the flowers, identical on the reverse. In near excellent condition with only some wear to the gold on the lions, exceptional for its age. This tsuba is accompanied by an 8.25 in. long kogai or hairpin also meant to be held in the scabbard of a katana to use as a weapon in perilous situations. This hairpin matches the theme of the tsuba with a black patina and gold embellishments only differing with the imagery, which consists of a rooster, small birds, and flowers. These beautiful items were often given as gifts, and we can only imagine the recipient would be quite honored not only for the exquisite aesthetic but for the imagery used. The foo lion represents guardianship, the chrysanthemum stands for longevity and rejuvenation, and the rooster is a symbol of courage. A truly fine set.

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Shipping

*SEE ADITTIONAL SHIPPING ABOVE* -Shipments are sent via FedEx and DHL (for most overseas shipments) or FedEx Ground at the auctioneer's option. Due to complications from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we will ship with USPS Priority Mail only if the buyer submits their request to us in writing and accepts responsibility for delayed shipments. Signature is always required, unless other arrangements are made. Handling and shipping charges will be added to the invoice in one entry. Buyers should be aware that large, framed, fragile or odd shaped items can incur substantial shipping and packing charges. International shipments are invoiced by DIMENSIONAL weight, not the item weight. Please contact us for an estimate before bidding NOTE: Large, heavy or bulky items may not be shipped by the auctioneer - arrangements for shipping of these items via a third-party shipper may be arranged through the auction house. Customers who supply their own courier account number will still be charged a handling fee. Please allow 2-3 weeks for shipments after receipt of payment due to the high volume of packages being shipped.

January 26, 2023 10:00 AM EST
Elkton, MD, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $999,999 $10,000
$1,000,000 $1,999,999 $50,000
$2,000,000 + $100,000