Artist
Kano Natsuo (1828–1898) wikidata:Q23940700
Title
Tsuba with the Bodhisattva Kannon
Description
English: The bodhisattva Kannon sits on the right side of the tsuba. While the bodhisattva is neither a man nor a woman, depictions of this type have a distinctly feminine aspect. She is called the “White Robed Kannon” because of her costume. She sits near a waterfall. Kannon is a compassionate deity who helps humans achieve Buddhahood. The reverse of the tsuba depicts lotus flowers, which are associated with Buddha and other Buddhist deities.
Date between 1848 and 1898 (Edo-Meiji)
Medium iron and brass with silver alloy and gold
Dimensions 8.5 cm (3.3 in)
Collection
Walters Art Museum wikidata:Q210081
Accession number
51.218
Place of creation Edo (present-day Tokyo, Japan) (?)
Object history

Henry Walters, Baltimore [date and mode of acquisition unknown]
1931: bequeathed to Walters Art Museum by Henry Walters

Credit line Acquired by Henry Walters
Inscriptions [Signature] Inscribed: Natsuo (kao); [Seal] Inscribed: Natsuo