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Tsuba-carver at his workbench

Japanese

Artwork Details

Tsuba-carver at his workbench
circa 1810-1830
Japanese
color woodblock print on paper
4 3/4 in. x 6 5/8 in. ( 12.07 cm x 16.83 cm )
Bequest of Margaret Watson Parker
1954/1.473

Description

Subject Matter:

The man is a Tsuba carver which is the artisan who created the hilt of a samurai's katana. Tsubas are typically made of iron and copper with inlays of more precious metals like gold, silver, and bronze. 

Physical Description:

This print depicts a man on the left bottom hunched over a workbench. He works on a carving in front of a panel depicting a blossoming branch. He wears long layered robes with the outermost one being an orange color. To his left is a large inscription (slightly faded). 

Usage Rights:

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