Until 1st May, 2026
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A FINE AND RARE KO-KINKO IRON TSUBA OF A COILED RAT
Lot 64 - JPN1225
Unsigned
Japan, mid-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
Published & Exhibited: Samouraïs. Guerriers et esthètes, Bibliothèque Nationale et Universitaire, Strasbourg, 11 March-13 July 2022, p. 123, no. 104.
Of kawarigata form, with one kogai hitsu ana, the nakago ana with copper sekigane, modeled in the form of a coiled rat holding its long tail, the eyes in shakudo takazogan, and the fur neatly incised.
HEIGHT 7 cm, LENGTH 6.8 cm
WEIGHT 111.1 g
Provenance: Ex-collection Patrick Liebermann. Patrick Liebermann (1948–2023) was a passionate collector of tsuba (Japanese sword guards). His journey began in 1970 when he unknowingly purchased his first tsuba, unaware it was a sword fitting—an encounter that sparked a lifelong dedication. Over the course of more than fifty years, Liebermann assembled an impressive collection of 450 pieces, always prioritizing quality over quantity. Rather than adhering strictly to specific schools, periods, or types such as sukashi or kinko, he was guided by the thematic content of each piece. His acquisitions were often made directly in Japan, with a discerning eye for originality and artistic merit. A selection of his collection was exhibited at the Bibliothèque Universitaire in Strasbourg in 2022, offering a glimpse into his refined and deeply personal approach to collecting.
Condition: Excellent condition with minor wear and little rubbing to the shakudo eyes.
In Japan, the rat (nezumi) symbolizes prosperity, fertility, wealth, resourcefulness, and adaptability. It is the first sign of the Japanese zodiac, representing beginnings, and is a companion and messenger to Daikoku, the god of wealth. The rat's ability to thrive even in difficult times makes it a symbol of good fortune and abundant harvests.
Museum comparison:
Compare a closely related shibuichi tsuba of a coiled rat, unsigned, mid-19th century, 6.7 cm tall, in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, accession number 11.12129.
Auction comparison:
Compare a related iron tsuba of a puppy with gold-inlaid eyes, signed with a kakihan, late 19th century, 8.3 cm tall, at Zacke, Fine Japanese Art, 13 June 2025, Vienna, lot 65 (sold for EUR 3,900).
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