Franco D

https://shibuiswords.com/unsignedTsuba.htm As you were.

You're missing the point.

How would you know without first studying it in hand.

Regarding mei; looks to be 1st generation, close to Sesko Meikan example, but hurried imho. Shinsa is the way to know for certain. Based upon the only example that I could find linked below for comparison, I would say no. Please, make up your own mind. https://tsubashi.com...rumasa-FK-set-01.jpg

High quality shakudo will repatinate itself given time. The lower the quality of the shakudo the greater the chance it will not recover back to where it was originally. In fact, even chemical inducement may end in disappointment. Good quality shakudo when repatinated will not only take but will continue to become richer in the depth of color and be evenly distributed. One of the keys to a properly restored piece is that the restoration cannot be detected even by sharp eyes, "doesn't look new."

Niente. There is so much to learn and remember. In moving forward many levels of materials and workmanship will be encountered. It is very helpful to objectively/critically grade each piece (fittings/swords) regardless of whether you own it or not, buy it or not.

Dear Patrice, sorry, I cannot tell you which technique was used in the plating of the flowers on this f/k set. At least not without close examination to figure it out or at least venture a guess. One thing that I'm puzzled about is that these do not appear to be Botan, that is peony flowers. Ah, Kiku, yes, that's much better!

Thank you for sharing. Is it possible to see a close up of the boshi on both sides? Thanks in advance.

Has anyone stopped to consider that this textured background on the subject tsuba is actually intended to be an ishimei and not nanako? p.s. one reason for collecting quality pieces is that all of the elements are clear and well defined, unambiguous.

The key to making a decision will come down to understanding the outcome vs cost. Typically, a collector will go through these considerations before making a purchase and not in hindsight. Be that as it may; If the mei is shoshin, then a polish could be rationalized depending. A new polish would mean having a new shirasaya and habaki made, and that is the proper way to store a newly polished blade. You can have the saya maker make a tsunagi for the mounts. Being suriage this sword may only achieve hozon origami, both of which will affect resale value, a consideration. So, it may come down to what this sword means to you personally in deciding how much you're willing to spend on restoration. Regardless, if you keep it as is keep it oiled and keep a close watch on it to make certain the rust does not progress.

Gettin' there. Appreciate the sharing, thanks.

The reason Japanese recommend to begin learning and studying the best swords possible (and Japanese sword furniture as well), is so that when we see "bad" swords and Japanese sword furniture it hurts your eyes. Now let's see, where did I leave those eye drops?

https://shibuiswords.com/unsignedTsuba.htm

Tail leans towards Ho-o/Phoenix. Take them to a jeweler and have them tested. My guess is that they are not gold and are a cast set of menuki. Often it is difficult to tell without looking at the backs of menuki to tell the difference between leaf and solid. In this case I'm betting neither.