T-133 Toshimasa Dragonfly Tsuba

Natsuo Styled Signed Dragonfly Tsuba

Very elegant tsuba in the style of Kano Natsuo. Since Natsuo was an important teacher of art in Tokyo, his style was very popular at the time of the late Bakumatsu – Meiji period. During this time, there were many changes in both the country as well as the people. The style of sword mountings changed dramatically as well, mixing with western influence. The new style of mount called “Toppei” became popular among the warrior and military classes. This type of mount, even when used with katana, utilized a small sized tsuba with no hitsu, similar to that of the old Satsuma style but much shorter.

This tsuba is an example of Toppei style koshirae, and even though small, was designed for a katana mount. If it was for a wakizashi or tanto, there would be a slot or hole for a kozuka in the tsuba's surface. High grade shakudo is very hard to photograph properly, so please remember that the tsuba is very dark, deep almost black in color. The work is at the master level with flawless details. Even with such small space to work on the design does not feel cramped or restricted. The style and work reminds us of the works of Kano Natsuo, the most famous tsuba maker during this period. If you like this tsuba, please remember that there is a 3 day in hand inspection period allowed in the US, as we have high confidence that you will enjoy and appreciate this high level of workmanship. The design is of a dragonfly hovering over a plant known as “Kouhone” or river bone as its root looks like that of whitened bone. Tsuba is made up of top grade shakudo and is heavy in weight.

1800’s

Signed – Toshimasa NBTHK Hozon

6.2 cm x 5.4 cm x 5.4 mm

$2750