High-Class Antique Japanese Samurai Sword Tsuba Satsuma School Dragon Gold Inlay

The Art of the "Sunamogiri" Dragon: The design depicts a Sunamogiri Ryu (砂潜り龍)—a mythical dragon dynamically weaving through sand, earth, or crashing waves. The carving is bold and deep, with sections of the dragon's body appearing to dive directly through the iron plate. Remnants of rich Gold Inlay (Kin-zogan) adorn the dragon's head and scales, creating a stunning contrast against the dark, oxidized iron.

Key Features:

• Elite Satsuma Lineage: Satsuma Tsuba are famous for their excellent forged iron quality and focus on real battlefield utility. This specimen’s heavy feel and rugged elegance are characteristic of the school's best work.

• Two-Sided Detail: The reverse side continues the theme with chiseled clouds, waves, or the dragon’s tail, accented by further traces of gold inlay.

• Heavyweight Presence: Weighing a substantial 103g, this Tsuba has the ideal thickness (0.43 cm) and weight preferred by collectors of serious, functional armor fittings.

• Samurai Heritage: Features original chiseled adjusting marks (Tagane-ato) around the central opening, showing it was custom-fitted to a real Katana.

Specifications:

• Classification: Satsuma School (薩摩系)

• Design: Sunamogiri Ryu / Sand-Diving Dragon (砂潜り龍図)

• Material: Forged Iron with Gold Inlay (鉄地金象嵌)

• Dimensions: 7.2 x 6.7 cm / 2.83 x 2.64 in

• Thickness: 0.43 cm / 0.17 in

• Weight: 103 g / 0.22 lbs (Heavy weight over 100g)

Condition:Excellent Antique Condition. The iron has aged beautifully, developing a dark chocolate-brown patina with healthy historic oxidation. The dragon carving remains crisp, and the gold inlay is bright and securely attached. A stable, museum-quality piece ready for display.