Clouds over the Rising Waves Tsuba 雲湧波生

Tsuba (Sword Guard) “Clouds over the Rising Waves”｜Brass Katakiribori × Ishime-ji

This tsuba is expertly crafted from brass, featuring an elegant motif of auspicious clouds and dynamic ocean waves—symbolizing the arrival of good fortune and the surge of strength.

The design employs the Katakiribori technique, in which single-sided slanted grooves are carved with precision chisels, creating bold outlines that catch and reflect light, giving the clouds and waves a sharp yet dimensional quality.

Its background is finished in Ishime-ji (stone-surface texture), achieved by striking the metal to form a fine, irregular pattern. This subdued, stone-like texture contrasts beautifully with the polished raised motifs, enhancing depth and visual harmony.

Named “Clouds over the Rising Waves”, this tsuba captures the imagery of billowing skies and lively seas, making it ideal both as a functional sword fitting and as a standalone collectible art piece.