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🪵 ITEM DESCRIPTION
This listing is for an antique Japanese iron tsuba featuring Chokaro Sennin (Zhang Guolao) and his magical horse emerging from a gourd.
Chokaro is a legendary Taoist immortal associated with a magical horse or mule that could be summoned from a gourd. In Japan, this story became closely associated with the well-known expression “Hyotan kara Koma” (瓢箪から駒) — literally, “a horse emerging from a gourd,” referring to something unexpected or seemingly impossible actually happening.
The design is carved into the iron surface, with Chokaro holding the gourd and the small horse appearing below. Small gold-colored details remain around the figure, adding an attractive accent to the dark aged iron.
The reverse is more restrained, allowing the natural texture and patina of the iron to stand out.
The piece shows age-related surface wear, oxidation, scratches, and patina consistent with an antique iron fitting. Please examine all photographs carefully for condition and details.
A traditional wooden kiri (paulownia) storage box is included.
✨ Item Details
- Item: Antique Japanese Tsuba
- Motif: Chokaro Sennin / Horse Emerging from a Gourd
- Japanese Theme: Hyotan kara Koma (瓢箪から駒)
- Material: Iron with gold-colored details
- Period: Edo Period (estimated)
- Signature: Unsigned (Mumei)
- Includes: Wooden Kiri Storage Box
📏 Measurements
- Height: Approx. 2 25/32 in (70.5 mm)
- Width: Approx. 2 5/8 in (about 66 mm)
- Weight: Approx. 138 g
- Nakago-ana length: Approx. 1 5/32 in (29.4 mm)
- Nakago-ana width: Approx. 1 3/32 in (27.8 mm)
Measurements are approximate.
🏺 Condition
Antique condition with visible age-related wear, surface oxidation, scratches, and patina. Some of the decorative details show wear consistent with age.
Please review all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.
📦 Shipping
- Ships from Maryland, USA
- Sent via USPS Ground Advantage with tracking
- Ships within 2–3 business days
- International shipping available
↩️ Return Policy
- Returns accepted within 14 days of delivery
- Buyer pays return shipping
- Item must be returned in the same condition received
- Refund issued after inspection
- Please contact us before returning
