T020 - Mukai Katsumushi 向い勝虫

Mokko Gata (Quadrilobate) tsuba, design by Mukai Katsumushi (向い勝虫), rounded border by Maru Mimi.

• Material: Iron, smoky black finish
• Dimensions: 77 x 69 x 5 mm
• Weight: 130 g

This Tsuba with 2 opposite dragonflies (Mukai Katsumushi - 向い勝虫). The dragonfly is, with the Sakura, one of the recurring emblems of the Samurai.
Meaning literally "Insect of the Victory", Katsu Mushi is very popular among samurai. Because dragonflies were considered to be fearless, quick and courageous, they were believed to provide strength and protection for soldiers.
The dragonfly is known to move quickly towards its target and effectively kill a pest (mosquitoes, taons...) without hesitation or retreat: it always goes forward (which makes some people falsely say that the dragonfly does not retreat. It does, it is even one of the most agile insects in flight).
It symbolizes agility, determination and victory for the samurai.