Tsuba (sword guard) decorated with a three-clawed dragon in clouds

Anonymous artist

Anonymous artist - Tsuba (sword guard) decorated with a three-clawed dragon in clouds
This sword guard is decorated in “round carving” marubori, “high relief carving” takabori and gold foil mekki. The dragon is a traditional symbol of magic powers and strength and the only mythological animal of the Asian zodiac. Its likeness combines various animals endowed with strength and perseverance (the dragon has a huge head like a buffalo, horns like a deer and the barbels of a carp or catfish). The Asian dragon has no wings; it flies with the help of a magic pearl.
date:
measurements: height 8,3 cm
width 8 cm
material: Iron, gold
technique: Marubori, takabori and mekki
inscription:
inventory number: Vu 3774
gallery collection: Collection of Asian and African Art