Thoughts on this Tsuba

[Rigbone]

I have not seen the flowerlike indentations before. can anyone tell me more about this tsuba? thanks

[Ganko]

It is signed Choshu Hagi Ju Tomomitsu.

The flowerlike indentations are from a punch which is used to displace the copper kuchibeni, which will then tighten the tsuba on the sword. It is a more decorative version of a round or square punch typically used for the purpose.

[Rich S]

Don't know why, but picture is not showing up.  Rich

 

OK, now it is. 

[Grey Doffin]

Hi Joe,

The better Choshu tsuba have a blue tint to the iron, which it appears to be the case with this one.  There is a spot of rust at 10:00 in your picture; a bit of fussing with antler/ivory should improve this and is well worth the effort.

Grey

[Rigbone]

thanks all!

[Japan2112]

I think the flower like punch marks around the nakago can be termed kesho kiku tagane (decorative chrysanthemum adjusting chisel). As Tom states, to adjust the fit of the sword. They are sometimes applied for a particular reason - like to an ubu mounting) not necessarily as a kantei point to a smith.