Fine Japanese Iron Tsuba Guard - "Peony and Dragon". Edo Period. Circa 1800.

Japanese Iron Tsuba Guard with extremely fine detailing. with foliage and peony decoration. Circa 1800. Possibly earlier.

The Japanese form of Peony has thickened stamens with a feathery appearance and this is beautifully detailed with gold inlay.The edges also finely decorated with dragons swirling in the clouds in gold with high relief. A clever design with the dragon seemingly moving through the edges of the Tsuba guard. Elaborate and intricate details. Excellent craftsmanship with rare Nanako surface (The Japanese name for punched, dotted surface finishes on metal). Superb.

Condition: Unrestored original and authentic condition.

Dimensions: (very slight oval form).

Height = 7.6cm.
Width = 7.2cm.
Thickness = 4mm.