Tsuba Kanji Help Please

[Edward S]

Hi all,

 

I have had this signed tsuba for quite a few years and I am hoping that the more knowledgable members of the board can help with two things. Firstly, the kanji translation please, and secondly I have read elsewhere that this may be a ‘Smith-made’ tsuba that may have been a tsuba substituted for a decorative tsuba for the purposes of battle?

 

The tsuba is made of iron and has a reddish/dark brown patina.

 

My very best to you all.

 

Edward S

[kyushukairu]

I can't make out the first couple of characters, but the smith's first name was Masanobu and he was a resident in Mito (??正信/  水戸住)

[Edward S]

I can't make out the first couple of characters, but the smith's first name was Masanobu and he was a resident in Mito (??正信/  水戸住)

Many Thanks Kyle, I’ll keep working on it and if others know the other two kanji that will be great.

 

Edward S

[k morita]

Hi,

 

Mei says Mito-ju 水戸住, Okabe Masanobu 岡部正信

[Edward S]

Hello Morita San.

 

Thank you very much for your assistance with the translation.

 

Edward S