波濤に岩上鷹図大小 Sword Guard (<i>Tsuba</i>) 1750 - 1850

This iron sword guard, or Tsuba, was crafted by Ishiguro Masatsune in Japan, featuring an eagle perched upon a rock amidst crashing waves. Here, the eagle isn't merely a bird, but a symbol of power, vision, and freedom, deeply embedded in the collective psyche across cultures. The motif of the eagle has been used for millennia from the Roman Empire to the United States. As we trace its evolution, we see the image of the eagle transformed into a symbol of national identity, and a reflection of aspirations for dominance and authority. Like the eagle, the rock and waves are also ancient symbols. Observe how the artist captures the raw energy of the natural world, from the powerful waves to the steadfast rock. These aren't just decorative elements; they resonate with primal forces, tapping into our deepest fears and desires. The sword guard is a microcosm of human experience, a battleground of contrasting forces. It is a reminder of how symbols transcend time, resurfacing in new contexts, forever influencing our perception of the world.