Rare Iron Tsuba Set of 2 with Paulownia Wood Box, Musashi-Style Sea Cucumber Openwork & Moonlit Waves Rabbit Design
This rare pair of iron Japanese sword handguards (tsuba) comes with a traditional wooden storage box. The set features two contrasting designs: a sleek sea cucumber openwork style said to be favored by the legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi, and a four-lobed tsuba depicting a rabbit beneath the moon among bamboo, finished with fine carving and gold inlay.
In samurai history, the tsuba served both as essential battle equipment and as a symbol of its owner's taste and philosophy. Musashi's design favors practical lightness and quiet strength, values central to bushido. The moon and rabbit motif offers a softer, more poetic touch, long said to symbolize leaping fortune, descendants' prosperity, and good luck.
This is a used antique set with slight scratches and stains appropriate for its age. Please review the photos carefully to judge condition, material, and authenticity before purchasing.
Set of two Japanese sword tsuba (handguards) in a paulownia wood box.
The first is a Miyamoto Musashi-style “Namako Sukashi” tsuba, featuring traditional sea cucumber-shaped openwork on both sides. Its simple, refined form balances lightweight construction with strength.
The second is a mokko-shaped tsuba depicting a moonlit rabbit with bamboo, rendered in detailed carving and gold inlay. The moon and rabbit motif symbolizes advancement, prosperity of descendants, and good fortune.
Condition should be confirmed from the photos. Antique item; age, material, and authenticity are not confirmed.
