CHOSHU TSUBA

[ROKUJURO]

Gentlemen,

I have what I think is a CHOSHU TSUBA , but I cannot read the second KANJI of the MEI. First is TOMO. I would appreciate your help in deciphering it.

Thanks in advance! 

[Nobody]

友之 - Tomoyuki

 

And the right line may be 長州住 - Choshu ju.

[ROKUJURO]

MORIYAMA-SAN
ARIGATO GOZAI MASU

[kissakai]

Saddle and whip but you already know that

[ROKUJURO]

Thank you Grev!

[b.hennick]

Muchi is not just a whip. It is often metal and often a sign of authority.

[george trotter]

That is the first time I have seen a 'sleeved' nakago ana for use on a slimmer nakago? Usually just see two copper 'cushions' inserted.

Also,,,What are the two alloy filled holes?... why holes?

Regards,

[Bugyotsuji]

Good questions, George. And the central box cuts through the Mei.

[ROKUJURO]

The TSUBA has obviously been (mis-)used as a keyhole cover. Not very uncommon, unfortunately.

Design is KURA to (TETSU) UMA MUCHI (horse whip, which could indeed be made of iron)

[george trotter]

The TSUBA has obviously been (mis-)used as a keyhole cover. Not very uncommon, unfortunately.

 

Design is KURA to (TETSU) UMA MUCHI (horse whip, which could indeed be made of iron)

Well, dang, I think you nailed it Jean. First time I have seen a tsuba mis-used in this way.

BTW, sorry to have "butted in" to the original topic.

Regards,