Tsuba in the Shape of an Inkstone with Inkstick

Description This tsuba has a raised rim that gives it the appearance of an inkstone. The upper right is decorated with a dragon. At the lower right is an inkstick decorated with a phoenix. Rather than purchasing liquid ink ready to use, individuals would make their own ink by grinding an inkstick in an inkstone to which a little water had been added. Only enough of the stone would be ground to create ink for the immediate use. On the reverse of the tsuba are peacock feathers decorated with gold enamel. The central opening for the blade has been plugged. This tsuba appears to be unused.

Provenance Henry Walters, Baltimore [date and mode of acquisition unknown]; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest.

Inscriptions none

Credit Acquired by Henry Walters