The development of the sword fittings, especially of the hand guards, so-called tsuba were accompanied by the development of the Japanese swords during the era of the samurai.
Early examples of blades as well as sword fittings have a functional appearance and were made corresponding with the current war techniques. From the 14th century onward, craftsmen specialized in makers of either hand guards or sword fittings, and who founded their own schools in cities and provinces. The tsuba of these schools are characterised by a distinctive style and regional features. During the peaceful Edo period (1615–1868) the sword mounting became a significant symbol of the samurai class. The sword fittings of this time show technical perfection and the use of high-quality materials, as gold-copper alloys or inlays of soft metal.The exhibition features a wide range of sword fittings spanning the 14th to the 19th century. Many of the major schools from the main tsuba manufacturing regions are represented, as Nara, Kyōto, Mino or Owari, as well as outstanding works of Hirata, Sōten, Tetsugendō or Ishiguro school.
Wednesdays, Fridays, Sundays
from 14.00 - 18.00
