J112.  Namban tsuba: iron with gold nunome.  7 x 7.7 x .4 cm.  The nakago hitsu-ana is .85 x 2.8 cm.  I think this is better than the average Namban tsuba.  Notice the pierced area between the hitsu-anas and the seppa-dai and the raised and carved and pointed hitsu-anas.  The collector who has consigned this tsuba to my site speculated that this piece copies elements of Chinese sword guards or may even be a Chinese export to Japan (more research is necessary).  Chinese scabbards were narrower than Japanese saya; thus the space between.

The work is fine, the jizo mimi is a nice touch, and condition is excellent.  $225.