Tsuba - T-Shirt

This T-shirt features an Edo-period tsuba – the protective guard set between a katana’s handle and blade – rendered with crisp detail for a quietly striking look.

The design

Our artwork reproduces a historical tsuba dated to 1615-1868 – Japan’s Edo period. Tsuba were practical and aesthetic: They shielded the hand in use, and they also became canvases for artisans working in iron and soft alloys like shakudō and shibuichi. Many feature openwork (sukashi), fine carving, or inlay with motifs from nature and folklore.

This print preserves the balanced geometry and patina you’d expect from an antique guard, giving the shirt a museum-quiet presence and a timeless silhouette that reads well from a few steps away.

 Why you’ll love it

• A faithful rendering of an Edo-period sword guard with historically accurate proportions.
• An elegant and understated way of showing your appreciation of samurai history, kendō/iaidō practice or Japanese arts & crafts in general.
• Thoughtful gift – a distinctive pick for anyone who appreciates Japanese craftsmanship and design.