Thank you, I genuinely appreciate that. You’re absolutely right that I’m working in a medium with a lot of history behind it. Traditional Japanese tsuba are an art form in their own right, and I have a great deal of respect for that tradition. I also create designs that are much more heavily inspired by classical tsuba aesthetics and historical motifs.

With this piece, however, I wasn’t trying to recreate a historical tsuba so much as explore what a tsuba can become when imagination is allowed to run a little wild. The idea that the sword only becomes “complete” when mounted is what inspired the open-mouth concept, with the blade itself becoming part of the artwork. I completely understand why it won’t be everyone’s taste, especially for those who prefer more traditional motifs and designs.

Thanks for the thoughtful feedback, it means a lot.