Wonderful Early Iron Tsuba

[sabi]

Hey everyone!

 

Needing to raise funds for a purchase that is a bit of a step up for me. Offering this wonderful early iron tsuba at an unbeatable price as a result...

 

This guard measures 77.5 x 72mm, is 3mm thick at the nakago ana and 5mm at the raised rim.

 

As for an attribution, this one is a little tricky but overall it's very en vogue of the nidai Yamakichibei. It's certainly early judging by the iron and construction and I'd put it in the early 1600's bucket. Likely made in Owari province based on other examples I've studied, but I'll leave the missing pieces of this puzzle for the next caretaker to fill in!

 

Wonderful patina and the yakite finish produces a gorgeous lustre. Design is known as hiashi yasuri and is used to symbolize sun rays or the Buddha's halo. There are many visible areas of folding on both the plate and rim, just marvelous craftsmanship all around by a very talented artist. Heavy tsuchime accents the plate and the uchikaeshi mimi shows a strong form and masterful execution. At six o'clock there are very well shaped and placed udenuki ana.

 

Asking $650 shipped to the USA, will ship internationally but please contact me for a quote before committing to the purchase. This tsuba ships with the handmade bag pictured.

 

Please let me know if you have any questions or need additional pics.

 

Thanks for looking!

 

 

 

 

 

 

[sabi]

Drop to $600, will be withdrawn if there are no takers at this price.

 

Edit: This is now sold pending funds...