Bob M.

Hi Nobody, Thanks for your help on this - do you think that the date refers to the hakogaki or the tsuba ? Although I suppose that it must be the hakogaki. I will post pics of the tsuba shortly - on the reverse there is an image of a bridge ( probably early 20th century ) together with fireworks . Maybe a celebration of opening ? This might relate to the Sumida reference on the top of the box. Bob M. Hi Stephen, You are right - this is a spectacular tsuba, although not in a conventional way. I have avoided putting the pics on the Board until after getting as much info. as possible, as I have found that others who have seen it become less than objective. Incidentally , the tsuba was up for sale in Japan about 2years ago. Bob M.

Hi, Photo of mei attached - I understand it to refer to a joint work with Itou Shinsui... Thanks! Bob M.

Any help that could be given with translation of the attached would be much appreciated. Thanks Bob M.

Understand the tsuba to be by Momoe at age 63 in autumn 1860 (Manen 1) - any other info. would be very useful . I have attached a closer (clearer ? ) image. Thanks for the interest. Bob

I understand it to be mid 19th cent. , Ichi-ryu school ( Mito ) by Mitsuyoshi. The inscription on the front face says about accepting orders for this tsuba. Maybe a 'tourist' piece ? Opinions anyone ? Bob M

Seem to remember some discussion a few weeks back concerning wood/leather etc. tsubas , but I cannot find the topic . Hope this is of some interest. Bob M

While playing with a new camera , I came across this tsuba in my collection - just thought it might be on topic. I believe it was made as an exhibition piece. Bob

Have re-shot the same tsuba in natural light - I think it looks a little better. I must have a play with the colour balance functions as it is difficult to rely on good natural light . Thanks for all the suggestions , please keep them coming... Bob Morrison

Revised rear image... Is there an optimal size for images like this ? Also some advice on lighting would be appreciated - I have been using a mix of standard incandescent flood light and halogen spot. Thanks ! Bob Morrison

Is this any better ? Bob Morrison

Just checking out a new camera with a random tsuba image - this should have been resized - is it O.K. ? Bob Morrison

Hello Steve, Heard that an NTHK shinsa is being worked on for either later this year or more likely next with probable venue in Kent. Not 100% sure which group it will be , but unlikely to be NPO . Will Post if I hear any more. Bob