| This tsuba depicts a flock of wild geese flying through the rain, rendered in three-dimensional openwork carving (nikubori ji-sukashi) on an iron ground. Numerous geese with outstretched wings are carved in relief, flying in different directions, while fine diagonal lines represent the falling rain. The varied postures of the geese create a lively composition, while the subdued tone of the iron and the openwork design complement each other. With its simple, unadorned charm, this practical tsuba is particularly well suited for mounting on a sword koshirae, where its appeal can be fully appreciated. |