* Nanako-bottomed shakudo tsuba of naga maru gata form, decorated in gold taka zogan and suaka. On the kogai itsu ana, inlaid in taka zogan, a rakan holding an octopus tentacle and a cup is depicted. At the bottom of the tsuba, other attributes associated with this type of character: nyoi (Buddhist scepter), "hossu" fly swatter and, on the reverse, a gnarled staff. Rakans are the Japanese equivalent of Chinese arhats: legendary disciples of the Buddha. Signed: Hamano Shozui Japan, mid-Edo period Minor wear to the patina H. 7.2 cm - L. 6.2 cm