Tsuba with Japanese Pine pattern (Matsu - 松).
Mokko Gata (quadrilobed), Maru Mimi border (rounded), Kogai and Kozuka Ana in sukashi opening with pine pattern.
The pine tree motif represents the 'Yogo No Matsu' (影向の松), a sacred pine tree of Kasuga Shrine.
Legend has it that the deities of Kasuga Shrine descend to earth via this pine tree. During the annual Kasuga Wakamiya Onmatsuri festival, ancient dances, performances, and ceremonies are held in front of this sacred tree. This tree was used as an example for the backdrop decorations (Kagami-ita) of Noh theaters throughout Japan.
Kasuga Taisha Shrine 春日大社 is a Shinto shrine in Nara City, built in 768. Legend has it that the god of thunder, Takemikazuchi, appeared on a white deer and advised the Fujiwara family to build this shrine. It became the titular shrine of the Fujiwara family, one of the most powerful historical families in Japan along with the Taira, Minamoto and Tachibana.
