Tsuba, Iron, At the center is the nakago-ana, an opening through which the sword passes. Surrounding this is the seppadai, a flat oval area that is migaki (burnished). On either side are ryo-hitsu, openings for the kozuka (utility knife) and the kogai (skewer tool). At left is sashi ura, the side which faces the blade, whose opening takes the hangetsu-kei (half moon) shape. Opposite is sashi omote, the side which faces the sword hilt. Its tri-lobed opening is of the suhama type, and symbolically represents the coastline of Horai, the holy island of the Immortals, Japan, 17th century, metalwork

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Photo credit: © Artokoloro / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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