Tonbo Tsuba With NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Certificate

$5,000.00

Tonbo Tsuba With NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Certificate
A stunning Shonai
Dragonfly Tsuba  in very finely detailed mixed metals and also mother of pearl on the central upper dragonfly, With recent Tokubetsu Hozon Certificate
90 mm x 85 mm
Symbolism of the Dragonfly (Tonbo)
  • Kachimushi (“Winning Insect”): Samurai called the dragonfly a winning insect during the Warring States period because it moved fast and only flew forward, never backward. 
  • Futaiten (Resolute Spirit): The insect’s behavior symbolized a mind that never gives up in the face of danger or difficulty. 
  • Auspicous Design: Samurai frequently used the dragonfly on sword mountings, armor, and helmets to prepare their minds for the battlefield. It is often paired with motifs like kiri (paulownia) flowers or shoubu (iris)