Kara-jishi lion Tsuba 唐獅子

Tsuba (Sword Guard) “Kara-jishi”｜Hand-Carved Shakudō Lion Motif with Black Patina Finish

This round tsuba features a Kara-jishi (唐獅子, Chinese lion) motif finely engraved in katakiri-bori (single-line carving). The lion stands proudly upon rocks, beside gently flowing water, symbolizing courage, vitality, and noble spirit.
The piece is crafted from shakudō (a refined copper–gold alloy) and finished with a black patina (ni-kuro shiage), giving the surface a deep, subdued luster that enhances the detailed carving. The design captures the Edo-period aesthetic of harmony between strength and serenity in sword fittings.