AF25697 Tsuba:: Mumei(unsigned)（Sho-ami）（NBTHK Hozon tosogu)

Ordering Number: AF25697

Tsuba:Enkō Hogetsu-zu (猿猴捕月図) （NBTHK Hozon tosogu)
Inscription: Mumei(unsigned)（Sho-ami）

Dimensions: 8.08 cm × 7.72 cm (3.18 in × 3.04 in)
Seppa-dai (Thickness at the base): 0.49 cm (0.19 in)
Weight: 115g

Period: Edo period
Description: An iron tsuba of irregular shape, featuring an openwork and carved design of Enkō Hogetsu-zu (a monkey reaching for the moon).

Note:
Enkō Hogetsu-zu (猿猴捕月図) depicts a monkey trying to grasp the reflection of the moon on the water’s surface, ultimately failing. This image originates from a Buddhist parable in which five hundred monkeys drown while trying to catch the moon.
It serves as a Zen painting motif symbolizing a moral lesson: “Do not overreach beyond your means” or “Be aware of your limitations.”

In Kiri box
Aoi Art estimation paper
NBTHK Hozon tosogu