Iron tsuba in nagamaru gata form, Japan, mid-Edo period (1603-1868) Decorated in iroe takazogan (inlay of different metals). It depicts a Hō-hō, the Eastern equivalent of our phoenix. This legendary bird with its colorful plumage, originally from China, is frequently represented in Japanese art, particularly on tsuba. Here, it is inlaid in gold iroe takazogan, suaka, shakudo and shibuichi, flying above a pine branch and reishi (mushrooms symbolizing longevity). 8.5 x 8 cm