A JAPANESE NARA SCHOOL SHAKUDO TSUBA

A JAPANESE NARA SCHOOL SHAKUDO TSUBA

EDO PERIOD, 18TH CENTURY

Of circular shape, decorated in openwork with a design of figures by a waterfall, one holding the tether of an ox, illustrating the story of legendary figures Xu You and Chao Fu, with details highlighted in gold and silver, with Hozon Tosogu (Sword fitting Worthy of Preservation) certificate no.4004013 issued by the Nihon Bijutsu Token Hozon Kyokai (The Society for the Preservation of the Japan Art Sword), dated 17 January 2014, in a kiri box, 7.3cm. (3)

Provenance: from a private European collection.

The story of the two hermits was often depicted in Edo Period paper screens (byobu) and woodblock prints. Legend says Xu You felt corrupted by Emperor Yaoi's request to become Governor of the Nine Regions and rushed to the River Ying to wash his ear. The recluse Chao Fu then decided to drive his ox away to protect it from the tainted waters.