| This tsuba depicts autumn insects living among autumn grasses, boldly rendered in ji-sukashi on well-forged iron. Rather than portraying the grasses and insects realistically, the design skillfully interweaves abstract forms suggestive of long stems and leaves, as well as the wings and legs of insects, spreading dynamically across the entire surface of the tsuba. The result combines the substantial character of the iron with a light and lively design. Although the motif is highly abstract and not immediately recognizable, the powerful iron ji-sukashi and skillful composition suggest that this tsuba was probably made by the Akasaka school. |
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