T254.  Iron tsuba with raised brass inlay of bamboo & tiger.  6.2 x 6.4 x .4 cm.  The nakago hitsu-ana is .8 x 2.7 cm.  I believe this is a cat and tiger is the cat that comes to mind with Japanese art, so tiger it is.  This is a very bony plate; I suppose it could be earlier than the brass work and adapted later as tastes changed.  The work is well done and condition is excellent.  $235.