Marugata-shaped iron Tsuba, Japan, late Edo period (1603-1868) Decorated in marubori sukashi, taka-zogan silver and suaka, and nunome-zogan gold, it illustrates the famous battle of the samurai Minamoto no Yoshitsune and the warrior monk Benkei on the Gojō bridge. The two sides of the guard show the front and back of the scene respectively. Signed Nagato Hagi Ju Naomitsu Saku. 8.5 x 8.1 cm According to legend, the monk Benkei, endowed with almost supernatural strength and physical constitution, had taken to stationing himself on the Gojō bridge, attacking passers-by in order to seize their swords. After collecting 999 of these, Yoshitsune came along and, against all odds, defeated the giant Benkei. Thereafter, Benkei became Yoshitsune's most loyal servant, accompanying him on his adventures until his death.