Tsuba with a Frog in a Lotus Pond

Description The primary motif of this tsuba is large lotus leaves in gold. The leaves at either side fold over the edge, which connects the two sides. Below the leaves, stylized lines in silver indicate water. Lotus grows in ponds of water. On the obverse, a frog is on the left, near the hole for the utility knife. The lotus is associated with Buddha and a state of purity.

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

Inscriptions none

Credit Acquired by Henry Walters