MF-396 Tanaka School Tsuba

Tanaka

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

1800’s

Signature:

 
Kao – NBTHK certified Tanaka School – with further research , the actual maker may be determined from the monogram.

Size:

7 cm x 6.2 cm x 4.5 mm

A very nice tsuba by the talented artists of the Tanaka school. Tsuba from this school are highly collectable, and are famous for both their themes and quality of work. Made during a time of social uncertainty, this particular theme was popular in Samurai art. Civil unrest was brewing, and everyone could feel the pressure mounting on both sides. The addition of the foreign invasion added to the fire of civil war. This design of (Hato Sarubokai) crashing waves and a certain type of clam that holds on show the feeling of the samurai; that is not giving up even though the rough waves of life keep throwing you around with uncertainty…

 

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FT-179 Akasaka Tadanori Tsuba

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

1700's

Signature:

Tadanori Saku NBTHK Hozon

Size:


7.3 cm x 7 cm x 5.4 mm

Rare signed example of Akasaka Tadanori.


Tadanori worked during the 1700’s under Tadatoki and was one of his top students (thus being allowed to sign his own name). His skill is said to be equal of his master, and it shows in this piece. This design of Nagekiri is a classic one, and was also used by the famous Higo schools as well. The iron is very nice, the forging is actually visible in the rim. Highly collectable for those that love Akasaka.

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FT-253 Shakudo Kenjo Tsuba

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

Late 1700’s early 1800’s

Signature:

 Unsigned

Size:

7.8 cm x 7.5 cm x 4mm

A very fine tsuba made of high grade shakudo. The workmanship is stunning on this tsuba. One can only imagine the amount of work it took to carve away all of the shakudo to leave the finished piece. The design itself is a very nice rendition of shishi with the peony flower (known in Japanese as Shishi to Botan). The design is accented with fine gold inlay. This type of tsuba was often used by higher class patrons of the Edo period. Shakudo tsuba of this type were very expensive back when they were made. Small imperfection (small break) near the end of the rope area but is not distracting to the overall aesthetics of the piece.

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T-128 Nobuie Waterwheel Tsuba

Jingo

Price:

HOLD

Time Period:

Late Muromachi – Momoyama

Signature:

Signed – Nobuiye NBTHK Hozon

Size:

Top – Bottom 7.5cm side – side 7.2cm

Rare Genuine Signed Nobuiye

A rarity offered for sale, a true master of iron, the famous Nobuiye is one of the most sought after makers when it comes to iron tsuba. Known for his excellent iron plate quality, it is said in many circles that the quality is the best of the best. As in the case of someone who is so famous, there are many, many forged (fake) signatures on pieces that are even made today. Even the noted artist Owari Norisuke made many “Nobuiye” tsuba that were passed on to many as genuine. However, when one has the chance to study a genuine item (in good condition of course), one can easily see the difference, not only in the iron quality, but in the carving as well. The example we have today is a combination of both his iron plate (notice how wet the iron appears), with very fine kebori carving, with the addition of a stronger carving of a water wheel. Tsuba in this quality and class level rarely come up for sale, so this is a chance for those that have only dreamed of owning such a piece.

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FT-257 Inagawa Yoshitaka Tsuba
Yoshitaka

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

Circa 1775

Signature:

Yoshitaka (kao) NBTHK certified.

Size:


7.1 cm x 6.8 cm x 4.3 mm

This very nice tsuba is the work of the artist known as Yoshitaka. Yoshitaka was a student and nephew of Inagawa Yoshikatsu. This fine tsuba has a nice design of a kara shishi jumping over plant life. Each subject is carved very well. The shishi is done in what is most likely solid gold, and the plants are done in fine gold and silver high relief. The skill shows especially on the surface of the tsuba. The fine nanako surface is punched one by one on high grade beautiful shakudo, even the rim is done in the same nanako pattern as well. With a custom box and with NBTHK papers. A great tsuba at a very reasonable price.

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T-129 Tanaka Kiyotoshi Tsuba

Jingo

Price:

HOLD

Time Period:

1800’s

Signature:

Signed – Ryu Hogen (Kao) NBTHK Hozon

Size:

6.3 cm top – bottom, 5.8 cm side to side, 3.7mm thickness at seppadai

Rare Tsuba by One of the Most Famous Masters of Kinko

Tanaka Kiyotoshi was the master of the famous Tanaka Toryusai School. Kiyotoshi had many students that went on to achieve fame as well, but still, there is nothing like the work of the master himself. Just recently we had the chance to see the famous sukashi monkey fisherman tsuba by Kiyotoshi that is in the collection of the Tokyo National museum. Because of the similar style of that tsuba and the one that we present today, we can see the extent of Kiyotoshi’s great skill, and easily understand why he is indeed a master. The tsuba has an iron plate that looks super wet, with fine use of gold and silver for the accents to the design. The idea of using the sukashi technique for the bird is indeed ahead of its time! Also notice the fine carving of the willow tree especially for its simplicity yet still showing strong life in the design. The well hammered surface is also a plus. A most rare masterpiece tsbua from a mastermaker offered for saleBeautiful gold guchi beni as well. According to the NBTHK certificate, the design is called Gekka Fukuro, or Owl under the moon.

Click on picture for a more detailed look.

 

T-154 Hirata Hikozo Tsuba

Price:

HOLD

Time Period:

Early Edo

Signature:

Unsigned NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon certified to Hikozo

Size:

6.54 cm x 6.54 cm x 2.6 mm at the rim

Classic Hirata Hikozo Tsuba

What is better than one Hirata tsuba? Two! This one is NBTHK certified to Hikozo himself making it even rarer and special. Hirata Hikozo was one of the most famous Higo metalworkers and was the teacher to both first generation Jingo and Kanshiro. He worked under the patronage of Hosokawa Sansai who was famed for his love of tea ceremony. As such, Hikozo was highly influenced in this regard and many of his pieces reflect this aesthetic. The most prized Hikozo pieces are done in copper as in this example.

Design is of namako (sea cucumber) sukashi and was copied by the famed swordsman Miyamoto Musashi in the final years of his life when he too was under patronage by Hosokawa. Again the finishing work is what really sets Hikozo apart and this is no exception. The excellent coloring achieved in the copper as well the tebori carving work on the face and back of the tsuba is well executed. The rim is masterful and is a mix of copper and shakudo and has a great feeling and shape that only an expert could do.

Hikozo is considered one of the most desirable kinko-shi and it is easy to see why when examining his work in detail. Tsuba from Hikozo are extremely rare and are one of the pinnacles of kodogu collecting. Comes with NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon paper and custom box.

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T-155 Ko-Katchushi Tsuba

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

Muromachi

Signature:

Unsigned - NBTHK Hozon to Ko-Katchushi

Size:

9.16 cm x 9.13 cm x .33 mm

Design of Rinpo Sukashi

Gorgeous Ko-Katchushi tsuba design of buddhist dharma wheel in sukashi. A popular subject from the Muromachi period, the buddhist wheel, rinpo, represents the path to enlightenment. This is a elegant example of the Ko-Katchushi school with graceful sukashi and thin simple iron done in tsuchime that is mouthwatering. Large in size, this classic is a must for the iron connoisseur. Tsuba comes in custom fitted box and is NBTHK Hozon papered to Ko-Katchushi.

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FT-97 Owari Tsuba

Price:

HOLD

Time Period:

1500’s-1600’s – Late Muromachi to Early Momoyama

Signature:

Unsigned -
NBTHK to Owari

Size:


8.5 x 8.4 x .53 cm

Very Strong Owari Tsuba from the Late Muromachi to Early Momoyama Period.

The design known as Masu ni Karigane sukashi is a design seen by the Owari School. The ji shows the nice granular surface texture, along with the deep dark remnants of old urushi (lacquer). Tekkotsu are present in the rim as expected with good Owari of this type. This is a very strong tsuba, and represents the Owari School well. Good Owari tsuba are few and far between, and an example like this one is rarely seen now.

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FT-146 Rare Signed Goto Mainline Tsuba

Price:

Hold
Time Period:

Edo

Signature:

Mon Renjo / Mitsutaka (Kao)  NBTHK certified

Size:

7 cm x 6.6cm x 4.7 cm

Tsuba from the mainline Goto School are very rare, signed examples even more so.

The Goto Masters that did the attributions knew all of the secret distinguishing marks as well as had access to the records that were passed down to each Goto master. As a result, they were very strict, even having their own masters left to do the appraisal of previous generations.

Goto Mitsutaka (Enjo) was the 13th master, and was known as one of the best for attributing previous masterworks. This tsuba, made of top grade shakudo, has a design of solid gold tigers made by Goto Renjo (10th master). Mitsutaka remounted the tigers on this tsuba (which was very common for top pieces in the Goto family). The tsuba is made by Mitsutaka whose skill is considered as good as Joshin and even the 1st master Yujo.

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T-136 Akasaka Tadashige Tsuba

Kioytoshi

Price:

 

Time Period:

Time period –Edo (1730-1816)

Signature:

Signed – Akasaka Tadashige Saku NBTHK Hozon

Size:

7.8 x 7.6 x .64 at rim

Design of Crescent Moon and Flock of Geese

This is an exemplary tsuba that demonstrates the true depth and ability of Akasaka Tadashige’s renowned skill. The tsuba is thick, yet coupled with the dynamic cutout imparts a serious strength to the piece. The tsuba is done in iron sukashi with rounded Akasaska rim and migaki (polished) finish.

The design of cresecent moon and geese is a classic traditional Akasaka school theme, (Mikazuki Karigane), but is done at such a high level that only the best Akasaka master’s could attain. Indeed, Tadashige is considered along with first Tadatoki to be one of the best smiths in the school. He is rated jokou in the Kinko Meikan. This is truly an excellent tsuba and a cornerstone piece for any collection.

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paper

T-137 Hayashi Shigemitsu Tsuba

Shigemitsu

Price:

 

Time Period:

Edo (1667-1754)

Signature:

Unsigned – NBTHK Hozon to Hayashi Shigemitsu

Size:

8.23 x 8.09 x .43 at rim

Design of Jigami Fan

Iron sukashi tsuba by Hayashi Shigemitsu, second-generation master of the Higo Hayashi school. Verified Shigemitsu works are rare, to find one this well preserved and in excellent condition is almost never ever seen.

The Hayashi school is famous for their rich color. This particular tsuba’s iron is a perfect demonstration of that as it has a deep gorgeous “wet” look to its surface. In addition, for all you jigane lovers out there, the tsuba has the rich dark jigane that is particular to Shigemitsu. If you are looking for a top grade Higo tsuba for your collection, this is a excellent piece. Shigemitsu is known for his natural elegance and this tsuba is a perfect representation of that aesthetic. The design is of Jigami fan motif and comes with kiri wood box and NBTHK Hozon papers attribution to Hayashi Shigemitsu.

Click on picture for a more detailed look.

paper

FT-181 Daisho Kamiyoshi Tsuba

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

1700’s

Signature:

Unsigned – NBTHK Hozon to Kamiyoshi

Size:

Dai – 7.4 cm x 7.2 cm x 5.45mm / Sho – 7.1 cm x 6.7 cm x 5.3mm

Excellent Dai-Sho set of Higo tsuba made by the famous Kamiyoshi School.

The design of Musashino is a very classic and popular theme. Musashino is the area where many great stories and battles were derived. The grassy plains of Musashino have been depicted on sword fittings for many hundreds of years. I have a nice Tetsugendo tsuba in my own collection of the theme. A daisho is rare with this theme, but a Higo Dai-Sho is even more rare. The iron is classic Kamiyoshi with their excellent special patina color resembling, Yokan (a Japanese sweet and a characteristic of Kamiyoshi and Hayashi Schools). These tsuba are excellent in both condition and quality. NBTHK certified as a Dai-Sho.

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T-117 Higo Living National Treasure

taihei

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

Modern

Signature:

Unsigned – NBTHK Hozon to Yonemitsu Taihei

Size:

8.6 x 8.28 x .4 cm

Iron Sukashi Tsuba by Yonemitsu Taihei

Rare tsuba by the ONLY tsuba maker to be given the title of Ningen Kokuho (Living National Treasure) Yonemitsu Taihei Mitsumasa was an excellent tsuba maker and kinkoshi. His works rival that of any top level Higo artisan from the Edo period, and have been mistaken for those of earlier masters. He was trained in the tradition al Higo style by his uncle, and in 1965 he received the title of Living National Treasure. Many of his works are unsigned as that was the style of the Higo School, but in his later years he started to carve his name on his pieces. This tsuba is an excellent example of his work, in perfect condition just as if you were living in the 1800’s and had just received your tsuba from Kamiyoshi Rakuju himself. NBTHK to Yonemitsu Taihei Mitsumasa with custom kiri box and hakogaki by Sato Kanzan.

.

NBTHK Hozon paper. Comes with custom kiri box.

Click on picture for a more detailed look.

 

FT-195 Sasano AkasakaTsuba

Akasaka

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

Early 1700’s

Signature:

Unsigned - Sasano attribution to 4th Generation Tadamune
Published Tsuba #237 in Sasano Book

Size:

7.55 x 7.40 x .55 cm

Sasano published Akasaka Tsuba #237

Sukashi Design of Musashino

Another excellent Akasaka attributed to fourth generation master Akasaka Tadamune by Sasano Masayuki. Published in Sasano's Japanese Sword Guards Masterpieces from the Sasano Collection. In the book, he writes," The nicely settled, and relaxed effect is most agreeable." The iron on the piece is nice sukashi carving is particularly pleasing on thie peace and is well done representation of Akasaka school.

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S-100 Goto Mitsutsura

Norisuke

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

1800's

Signature:

Goto Mitsuakira (Kao) NBTHK Hozon

 

Size:

76 x 71 x 4 mm

Rare top grade Goto tsuba made by Goto Mitsutsura. He was from the line of Goto Seijo and the style is like that of Ichijo. Excellent Suaka surface with super fine detail of birds with plnts on fencing. Detail is the best we’ve seen in a while, even the shakudo rim follows the design in height and angle. Not much to say except that this tsuba is a treasure for any collector. It was published in an exhibition book of fine tsuba, and was apparently from Sasano’s private collection (from the collection of tsubas that were part of his “keeper” collection, not the “study” tsuba collection)..

NBTHK Hozon paper. Comes with custom kiri box.

Click on picture for a more detailed look.

 

Item T-101 Dragon and Wave Umetada

Dragon Wave Tsuba

Price:

SOLD
Time Period:

Late 1500’s – Very early 1600’s Momoyama period

Signature:

Unsigned – in our opinion Umetada or Goto we guarantee Momyama period

Size:
Just under 3" round

Very excellent high Level Momoyama Daimyo Tsuba.


Large katana sized tsuba done in the style of the Momyama period for the upper class. Tsuba of this type are very rare and are only seen occasionally as they often belonged to the Daimyo class. Usually tsuba of this type are done by the Goto , KoKinko or Umetada families during this time.

 

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FT-198 Heianjo Tsuba

Price:

HOLD

Time Period:

1500’s

Signature:

Unsigned – NBTHK Heianjo

Size:

9.34 cm x 9.34 cm x 3.5 mm

Large Rare Heianjo Tsuba in Very Nice Condition.

It is unusual to see such large tsuba from the Heianjo school. This one may have been used for a Nodachi or big Nagamaki. The thinness shows age, so we must put this piece around the late Muromachi period. The brass inlay is still pretty much intact except for a few places. The tsuba is in other wise good condition.  There are 4 holes at the various corners of the tsuba that were probably added at a later date for some unknown reason.

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FT-194 Sasano AkasakaTsuba

Akasaka

Price:

HOLD

Time Period:

Early 1700’s

Signature:

Unsigned - Sasano attribution to 4th Generation Tadamune

Size:

7.52 x 7.42 x .53

Sasano published Akasaka Tsuba #235

Sukashi Design of Musashino

Excellent Akasaka attributed to fourth generation master Akasaka Tadamune by Sasano Masayuki. Published in Sasano's Japanese Sword Guards Masterpieces from the Sasano Collection. In the book, he writes," The nicely settled, and relaxed effect is most agreeable." The work is a classic example of Akasaka iron and design and has the additional bonus of being once owned by Sasano himself.

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T-144 Tanaka ToshikageTsuba

Toshikage

Price:

HOLD

Time Period:

Late Edo

Signature:

Signed Hoshinsai Toshikage

Size:

7.25 x 6.2 x .49 cm

Superb Tanaka Toshikage Tsuba of Phoenix.

Toshikage was a top tier student who studied directly under Tanaka master Kiyotoshi. The Tanaka school was most famous during the 1700's. They were known for their innovative style, and the fantastic iron patina that separated them from the other schools of kinko. This tuba is a fabulous representation of both their skill in design and their iron patina. The design is of Ho'o bird (Phoenix) which is said to live in the Kiri tree. It was seen as a divines symbol because it was said to never touches the ground and thus was compared to the Emperor and Empress. It is known as a symbol of holiness and mercy as it is known to never eat insects or animals. Tsuba comes in custom box and has a hakogaki by Sato Kanzan and was published in Shibata Mitsuo's Tsuba Hyakuten.

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T-156 Yamakichibei Tsuba

Price:

HOLD

Time Period:

Early Edo

Signature:

Signed - Yamakichibei NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon

Size:

7.1 x 6.85 x .34

Excellent iron Yamakichibei Tsuba.

Yamakichibei was a famous Owari province smith that was famed for his iron tsuba. He created works that had bold and daring iron (tetsuji) coupled with rustic designs that became highly sought after for their uniqueness. In fact, Yamakichibei Tsuba became so desirable that there were many fake copies made in the Edo period. A true signed Yamakicibei is very hard to find and makes this tsuba even more worthwhile to study. The iron has a beautiful deep luster and amida yasuri. The tekkotsu is rugged and strong. Large sukashi cutout design is of dragonfly.
A must own for the iron stub collector. Tsuba comes in custom box and has NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon papers.

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C-108 Satsuma Naokiyo Monkey Tsuba

Satsuma Naokiyo

Price:

SOLD
Time Period:

Late Edo

Signature:

Sashu ju Oda Naokiyo -NBTHK Hozon certified

Size:

Beautiful iron sukashi tsuba of monkeys by Satsuma Naokiyo in mint condition. This is a fabulous tsuba with stunning detail and work. The monkeys almost feel alive with movement. Notice the skillful kebori work of fine hairs that adds to the realism. This tsuba is the reference tsuba mentioned in the kinko jiten and is a stunning piece. The iron is classic Satsuma iron and is something every collector should remember. NBTHK Hozon certified . Comes with custom kiri box.

 

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T-124 Jingo Sandai Ryu Tsuba

Jingo

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

1600’s

Signature:

Signed – Yashiro Jingo saku (3rd master)

Size:

7.94cm top – bottom, 7.4 cm side to side, 5.9mm thickness at seppa dai

Rare Large Classic Signed Shimizu Jingo Tsuba

Unusually large iron plate tsuba by the famous Higo Shimizu Jingo 3rd master. Classic design of the dragon and vajra with perfect condition patina. Tsuba has excellent iron that the Jingo School is known for with chocolate wet 4 lobed shape iron with raised seppa dai. All of the classic characteristics just like in the book! Everything you wanted in a Jingo tsuba. The 3rd master is very early, and is the start of signed examples with the few exceptions that remain of the 2nd. Signature is well cut and in great condition, and a tsuba for serious Higo collectors. NBTHK certified, and custom box.

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FT-34 Takase Eiju Tsuba

Kotosho

Price:

Sold

Time Period:

1800’s

Signature:

Signed - Gyonen Roku Ju ni / Takase Eiju (Kakihan) NBTHK Hozon

Size:

6.23cm x 5.66 cm x 5.7mm

Kanzan and Jittoku Shisui Takase Eiju Tsuba

The subject of Kanzan and Jittoku along with their friends Bukan and his Tiger are known as the Shisui or four sleepers. This tsuba depicts the 4 friends extremely well. The carving skill of Eiju is very apparent in this tsuba, and demonstrate why he is one of the most famous in the Mito kinko school. The excellent shibuichi plateis carved in a way that makes it appear as if it were made of fabric. The use of shakudo, gold, red copper and silver (look at the tigers fangs) adds to the richness of this masterpiece. His skill at presenting the design is done in a way where there is a certain “liveliness” to the piece. This is masterpiece workmanship!The back is as good as the front with a scene of an old pine tree and a hint of the back of the tiger.This is definitely a tsuba to own as it is so enjoyable and has exquisite workmanship. Takase Eiju was a retainer of the Matsudaira family and studied with the famous Mito Kinko artist Taizan Motozane. An excellent piece for a serious collector. Custom fitted box included.

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T-151 Owari Tsuba

Price:

HOLD

Time Period:

Momoyama

Signature:

Unsigned - NBTHK Hozon certified to Owari

Size:

7.92 x 7.87 x .52 cm at rim

Classic Momoyama Owari Tsuba of Yanagi and Sagi

Design is of Yanagi (Willow Tree) and Sagi (Heron). Strong example of open Owari sukashi design in the Momoyama period. The iron has a nice age and feel to it with strong Owari rim and excellent sukashi work. The patina has the classic dark blue black of good Owari and is good representation piece of the school. Good iron tsuba are getting harder and harder to find. This is a piece will hold up in any good iron collection for a long time and is a good piece to study.

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T-152 Nishigaki Kanshiro Tsuba

Price:

HOLD

Time Period:

Early Edo

Signature:

Unsigned -  NBTHK certified to Kanshiro

Size:

8.01 cm x 7.8 cm x 5.0 mm

Excellent NBTHK Hozon Nishigaki Kanshiro Tsuba

Classic Higo Kanshiro iron tsuba are always very enjoyable and important works to study. Design is done in sukashi and is known as nagekiri (paulownia) tree. First generation Kanshiro was a student of Hirata Hikozo. His works are famous for their shape, elegant improvisation and relaxed feeling. If one were to compare the work of Haashi Matashichi and Kanshiro, Matashichi can be thought of as the classical concert pianist maestro and Kanshiro like the great improv jazz musicians.

This tsuba is an excellent representation of Kanshiro's ability. The shape of the stub has a rough elongation that is typical Kanshiro, The seppa is rough and is purposefully done in this manner in the tradition of the times. The sukashi is also elegant and skillfully executed in the natural way that Kanshiro worked in. The hitsuana beautifully demonstrate his personality as well. The paulownia tree kebob is graceful in feeling and completes this strong piece. NBTHK Hozon certified to Kanshiro and comes with custom box. Some wear on kogai ana but does not detract from the enjoyability of the piece.


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FT-189 Akasaka Tsuba

Akasaka

Price:

HOLD

Time Period:

Edo

Signature:

Unsigned - NBTHK Hozon to Akasaka

Size:

7.52 x 7.3 x .7 cm at rim

Design known as Kasumi ni Seiza which translates as Constellation through the mist. Strong thick rimmed iron example of Akasaka work. The sukashi work is very well done and has a strong deep feel to it. The rim is massive, bold and thick. The theme is of viewing the big dipper through a hazy mist and has that lyrical quality that many Akasaka tsuba possess. Tsuba has NBTHK Hozon paper to Akasaka.

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T-132 Ko-Tosho Tsuba

Kotosho

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

At least 1500’s

Signature:

Unsigned – Ko Tosho NBTHK Hozon

Size:

8.7 cm x 8.7 cm

Large No Hitsu Ko-Tosho

An all original Ko-Tosho tsuba in excellent condition. Many of these tsuba had kozuka or kogai hitsu added when remounted for later use in the Edo period. There are very few Ubu examples left of these old tsuba, making this a nice find. Most are said to be from the Muromachi period, but is a “safe” guess as the age. In our opinion, it is most likely that many of these tsuba could have possibly been from an earlier period. Tsuba were used like this from the earlier Nanbokucho period for example. Since the attribution is to Ko-meaning old Tosho, there is no question that this tsuba is at least from the Muromachi period. Tsuba has a nice ironplate that is well worked and hammered with beautiful simplistic sukashi of “ryusui” or running water. The design is very poetic and fitting of samurai esthetics of the period. Excellent iron quality and condition, and NOT resized like many old Tosho tsuba.

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T-103 Heianjo Sukashi Kiku

Norisuke

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

1400-1500’s

Signature:

Unsigned – guaranteed to pass Hozon (NBTHK) to the Heianjo School Muromachi period

Size:

87.2 x  85.2 mm seppa dai 3.5mm

 

Large Real Muromachi period Ubu Heianjo Tsuba.

Large excellent heianjo Sukashi tsuba from the Muromachi period. There are very few tsuba left in existence like this type. Many tsuba like this never survived as they were made very delicately. The sukashi work is very nice, as is the fine brass inlay. This is top quality work by the Heianjo School, and this type was made when the school was at its best during the 1400-1500’s. Very large sized for Tachi or large Uchigatana, no hitsu (Never modified) and Very very thin!!!! For those who are serious collectors of TRUE Muromachi pieces, not like those of the later Heianjo that are frequently seen. A very similar example was on display at the Sano Museum as an example of fine sukashi Heianjo work from the early period. In custom fitted box.

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T-157 Higo Hayashi Tsuba

hayashi

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

Edo

Signature:

Unsigned - NBTHK Hozon to Hayashi

Size:


7.28 x 6.92 x .46 cm

Design of Pine Tree

Hayashi Matashichi was the founder of the Hayashi school and worked for the Hosokawa family in Higo. Matashichi was renewed for his skill and ability and is considered to be a master kinko-shi. Hayashi works are famed for their mouthwatering iron. This example is good example of the school with excellent wet patina and smooth polished iron. The design is simple and elegant something Matashichi was famous for. NBTHK certified to Hayashi.

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FT-188 Higo Nishigaki Tsuba

Nishigaki

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

Early-Mid Edo

Signature:

Unsigned - Higo Nishigaki

Size:

7.91 x 7.46 x .43 cm

Design of Tomoe and Paulownia

This design was made famous by the first Nishigaki Kanshiro master and is of commas (Tomoe) with gold arabesque inlay. Classic example of the school, the work is very natural feeling with the zogan skillfully inlaid in to the stub in the typical Nishigaki way. The iron is also very well done and skillfully carved out. A good piece for the Higo collector to study. Tomoe were a popular subject among samurai and where though to be auspicious and brought good fortune. Tsuba comes in custom fitted box.

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T114 - Tetsugendo Tsuba
Tetsugendo

Price:

 

Time Period:

Late Edo

Signature:

Unsigned – NBTHK Hozon certified to Tetsugendo school

Size:

78.8 x 73.5 x .38 cm

Excellent iron Tetsugendo sukashi tsuba

Design is called “Kobito no Kuni (Country of the little people),” and comes from a Chinese/Japanese book called Wakan Sansai Zukai. While it may seem that that is a giant crane flying over people, it depicts literal hobbits with a normal sized crane flying overhead. The hobbit people are holding on to a rope so that the crane will not take them away. In Wakan Sansai Zukai, this theme refers to an ancient Chinese fable and saying.

Tetsugendo School was founded by Naoshige, also known as Shoraku, who in the late Edo period was considered one of the “famed Kyoto three,” along with Otsuki Mitsuoki and Nagatsune. He was originally a student of Nagatsune, and was said to be equal in skill.

The tsuba itself is in excellent condition with custom box with NBTHK Hozon paper to Tetsugendo school and displays excellent use of mixed metal zogan as well as strong nikubori sukashi.

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MF-272 Mitsushige Daisho Tsuba

Mitsushige

Price:


SOLD

Time Period:

1800’s

Signature:


Signed – Bushu Ju Mitsushige Saku / NBTHK Hozon

Size:


Dai – 7.4cm x 7.3cm x 4.5 mm
Sho – 7.0 cm x 6.8 cm x 4.5mm
 

Nice Daisho set of soft metal tsubas by Bushu Mitsushige. Base plate is shinchu, with takabori of shakudo, silver and gold. The design is very nice , the classic scene of shishi playing around the waterfall. Mitsushige shows his skill by not only incorporating high relief carving in the design, but by also doing a very nice fine kiri bori for the tree carved in the background. This set is very nice, and can be enjoyed either on a nice daisho mount or on their own. NBTHK Hozon.

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Mitsushige

T-100 Omori Chidori & Wave Tsuba
Omori

Price:

SOLD
Time Period:

1700-early 1800’s

Signature:

Unsigned – we believe this piece will get a Hozon paper to Omori School or better.

Size:
3.26” x 2.93”  thickness at seppadai .12”

Very nice large shakudo tsuba done in mokkogata form. Very high level custom work (probably special ordered) as the Omori School did not usually do this shape. Excellent carving of waves with chidori birds, fine detail with many many gold dots for the sprays from the waves. Materials are all of top quality, as main schools such as this did not skimp on the materials one bit. True Omori pieces are rare, and custom made pieces are even more rare. The Omori School is one of the most famous Machibori Schools during the later part of the mid Edo period. In very good condition with a custom fitted box.

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T-148 Kenjo Ko-Kinko Tsuba

Price:

HOLD

Time Period:

Momoyama

Signature:

Unsigned - NBTHK Hozon to Ko-Kinko

Size:

7.2 cm x 6.3cm x 4.2 cm

Top Class Kenjo-mono Momoyama Period Tsuba

Kenjo-mono refers to items that were used by distinguished higher up officials and samurai and are usually of designs that are more formal in nature, reflecting their status and position in ancient Japan. The workmanship and materials are of highest quality and no expense was spared in construction. This tsuba reflects all those traits with its deep jet black shakudo and incredible weight from the higher gold content in the shakudo. The nanako work is superb as well, in fact the piece almost looks brand new except for the nanako wear seen on the almost smooth rim. The family crest inlay are skillfully inlayed as well. Excellent tsuba to own as a collector item or for a top grade mount. Comes with NBTHK Hozon paper to Ko-Kinko and custom box.

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T-123 Higo Nishigaki Kanshiro Tsuba

taihei

Price:

HOLD

Time Period:

1600’s

Signature:

Unsigned – NBTHK Hozon to Nishigaki Kanshiro

Size:

8.27cm top – bottom, 8cm side to side. 3.5mm thickness at seppa dai

Tsuba by Nishigaki Master Kanshiro

Nishigaki Kanshiro is the master of the Nishigaki School that was directly employed by Hosokawa Sansai (Higo Daimyo). His works are few, and are collected all over the world when found. Pieces appraised as his works are highly sought after, and now with the new book by Ito Mitsuru about the Nishigaki School, their appreciation has grown even more. Excellent iron plate (it is very hard to capture the “wetness” of the iron with a camera) with remnants of gold zogan done in the style of lightning. This tsuba resembles the works of Nakane Heihachiro, but Kanshiro also did this design as seen in the book by Ito. The design is very nicely done, and the well place shakudo hitsugane were done quite a while ago. This same design is seen on several Juyo Higo mounts and that alone shows this tsubas importance. A chance to own a certified work of a master from the famous Higo School.

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MF-281 Tosho Tsuba by Yoshindo Yoshihara

Norisuke

Price:

HOLD

Time Period:
2012
Signature:

Signed by gold in han seal of Yoshindo

Size:

82mm x 8.2mm x 2.1mm thick

Beautiful large iron Tosho tsuba made by one of the most foremost swordmakers in the world. Yoshindo Yoshihara is one of Japan’s most famous and talented sword smiths. He is a Tokyo Prefectural Living Cultural Asset, and that is one step below Living National Treasure. It is not widely known that he makes tsuba on occasion, and usually only by order. I ordered this tsuba earlier this year and just picked it up. It is a excellent example of a Tosho tsuba with ultra fine carving. The plate is rich and moist like any good tsuba should be. Finely hammered surface with ultra thin kasane. The sukashi of the Aizen Myoo and Fudo Myoo bonji are immaculate. It is a top grade tsuba and I personally have one in my own collection. In a custom fitted box, with Yoshindo’s personal sign for the hakogak

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FT-184 Ryu Dragon Tsuba

Dragon

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

1700-1800's

Signature:

Unsigned - Tanaka school in our opinion

Size:

8 cm x 7.4cm x 4.5mm

Tsuba with a well cut design of a dragon.

The iron plate is so nice on this tsuba, it has a nice soft velvety texture that is found in good tsuba from the Toryusai school. The dragon is cut very well, and the design on the reverse is well executed as well. This is a very nice tsuba and would be welcomed in any collection.

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T-147 Amida Yasuri Tosho Tsuba

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

Early Edo

Signature:

Unsigned - Guarantee to paper to at least Tosho school if papered with us within a year of purchase.

 

Size:

8.7 cm x 8.7 cm x 3.9 mm

Nice large Tosho example

Iron Tosho tsuba design of toys and monkey with amida yasurimei and copper plug.The mon sukashi work is well done and is of toys and perhaps kuzari (falling) monkey. Tsuba is super large in size and quite enjoyable for the a collector looking to study a nice tosho tsuba at fair price. Note copper and lead pewter plus usually indicate older plugs.

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T-159 Higo Kamiyoshi Tsuba
Nakane

Price:

$1,500

Time Period:

Late Edo Period

Signature:

Unsigned - NBTHK certified to Kamiyoshi

Size:

7.87 x 7.42 x .35 cm


Design of Tomoe and Kirimon Sukashi

Classic Kamiyoshi sukashi tsuba with Rakuju tagane punch marks around the seppa. The tsuba itself is excellent with nicei iron patina and excellent inlay work with well carved sukashi design. Rakuju was famed for his skill and ability even among the Higo craftsmen. He worked to develop and further the Kamiyoshi school and succeeded in making fittings that are highly prized even today. For the Higo collector or someone with a Higo Koshirae to mount, this tsuba would make a great addition. Tsuba is certified to Kamiyoshi school and comes in kiri box.

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T-158 Nakane Heichachiro Tsuba
Nakane

Price:

$1,500

Time Period:

Edo Period

Signature:

Unsigned - Nihon Tosugu Bijitsukan certified to Nakane

Size:

7.85 x 7.20 x .28 cm

Design of Sukashi Fans and Thunder inlay

Nakane Heihachiro was a famed artisan of Higo and his works are often seen on many Higo Koshirae. He typically used large sukashi carving on the left and right and then used raimon zogan around the rim. Note that the distressed inlay was intentional and is a characteristic of his pieces, leading to a aged refined look.The sukashi cutouts are of fans. This piece is a good example of his work and has old fittings museum papers attributing it to Nakane. For the Higo collector or someone with a Higo Koshirae to mount, this tsuba would make a great addition.

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MF-295 Mitsuyuki Dragon Tsuba

Jingo

Price:

SOLD

Time Period:

1800’s

Signature:

Signed – Choshu Mitsuyuki signature guaranteed to pass NBTHK shinsa

Size:

7.4 cm x 7.1 cm x 2.9 mm


Nice katana tsuba by Choshu Mitsuyuki. Mitsuyuki was a Choshu artisan that learned from the famous Tetsugendo School. His teacher was Okamoto Tomoharu. He worked around the early 1800’s and his skill was respected. This tsuba has a classic design of a three-toed dragon that is very well done. This tsuba has the design carved out of the actual surface with great attention to detail. This is a tsuba made for a katana with the lack of any hitsu ana indicating this point. In very nice condition, holiday special price until March.

Click on picture for a more detailed look.