Japanese Treasures from the Samurai Era

Fifty years of passion

A significant portion of Patrick Liebermann’s collection was acquired in Japan, a country he visited around twenty times, leading to the presence of many rare pieces. A nature enthusiast, he was particularly drawn to motifs featuring animals, flowers, landscapes—especially views of Mount Fuji—and the world of the samurai.

A true work of art

 

Tsuba are far more than mere protective elements; they are genuine works of art, reflecting the refinement and expertise of Japanese artisans. Initially designed for functional purposes with minimalist aesthetics, they evolved during the Edo period (1600–1868) into highly decorative objects—sculpted, openworked, and sometimes inlaid with precious metals.

Their motifs, often inspired by nature, mythology, or folklore, reflect the status and tastes of their owners. Crafted in iron or sophisticated alloys such as shakudo (a mix of copper and gold) or shibuichi (a mix of copper and silver), tsuba represent a perfect balance of strength and beauty.
With extraordinary variety, these objects tell the story of samurai culture—revealing them not only as warriors but also as admirers of theatre, nature, and the society around them.

Among the highlights of the sale are:

Patrick Liebermann