A very Rare early Christian Tsuba from the Momoyama Period
Christian Cross Tsuba are very rare and historically significant antique Japanese sword guards made from Momoyama period and into the Edo period, During the Edo were associated with the “Hidden Christians” (Kakure Kirishitan). These tsuba feature disguised or subtle Christian cross motifs and other clandestine religious symbols, used during a time when Christianity was outlawed in Japan.
During the Edo period (1603-1868), the Tokugawa shogunate strictly prohibited Christianity, forcing Japanese converts to practice their faith in secret. To evade persecution, they created everyday objects, including sword fittings like the tsuba, with hidden symbols. The term “Ko-Kinko” refers to early metalworkers (kinko) from the Muromachi period or early Edo period who often worked in metals other than iron, such as copper alloys (yamagane), and whose functional designs evolved into more elaborate, decorative pieces over time.
Design and Features
The Christian cross motifs on these tsuba are often subtly integrated into traditional Japanese patterns to avoid detection. Common examples include:
- Sukashi (openwork) designs: The cross shape might be incorporated into the negative space of a design.
- Disguised imagery: The cross might be part of a common design like a floral or geometric pattern that, when viewed from a specific angle or with prior knowledge, reveals the Christian symbol.
- Material: Many Ko-Kinko tsuba were made of brass or bronze and sometimes featured gold or silver inlay, which was a departure from the iron tsuba favored by many samurai.
Collectibility
Due to their historical rarity and cultural significance, authentic Christian Cross Tsuba are highly sought after by Collectors.
