| The design depicts Tōryūmon ("The Carp Ascending the Waterfall"), an auspicious theme based on the famous Chinese legend in which a carp successfully climbs the turbulent Dragon Gate rapids on the upper reaches of the Yellow River and is transformed into a dragon. For centuries, this motif has symbolized success in life, advancement in one's career, family prosperity, and flourishing business.This tsuba is fashioned in yatsu-mokkō-gata form and depicts a large carp struggling upstream against a waterfall. The iron plate is fitted with a gold fukurin of relatively low-purity gold, lending the piece a distinctive character and age-related charm.The tsuba was attributed to the Mito school and was certified as Tokubetsu Kichō Kodōgu (Special Precious Sword Fitting) in 1976.A powerful and auspicious design expressing determination, perseverance, and ultimate success. |
Search
