Nothing special Tsuba, but still curious.

[MHC]

Hello all,

Had this for awhile, I know it's nothing special, but still curious about it's approx. age and the artist.  Hate having something, without knowing details about it.

 

Mark

 

[kyushukairu]

Hello Mark,

Your tsuba is signed ‘Shoami’ (正阿弥), which denotes a school of metal work, rather than a particular artist.

[MHC]

Thanks Kyle,

 

A school with beginner students I would guess, by the questionable skill level of this piece. It had a lot more gold & silver inlay at one time, but the installation style is lacking good adhesion, and has fallen out over the years.

It does appear that it has been mounted on at least 2 swords over the years, so somebody liked it enough to use.

 

Mark

[kyushukairu]

Shoami were a large school(s) (there were several groups Kyo, Iyo, Aizu, Shonai etc - see here for an overview - http://www.shibuiswords.com/shoami.htm). However, as with any tosogu school, quality often varies. There are some very beautiful and valuable Shoami tsuba (particular ko-shoami). Although your tsuba has lost some inlay and the decoration has been removed, it’s nevertheless a pleasant plate with the theme of a bird cage and a soaring bird, perhaps suggesting the bird has broken loose or been freed.  

[MHC]

Hello Kyle,

 

Thanks for the attachment, it was good and informative reading, very helpful indeed.

 

Now I feel comfortable knowing a period and a school style. The Aizu-Shoami school style, seems to fit it the best, wish it was in better condition.

 

It came on a sword I bought that was probably a civilian WWII Gunto re-mount, utilizing the older blade & Tsuba, with a re-used Saya wrapped in Gunto leather and a Gunto Tsuka. Everything fits together flawlessly and super tight, and all the patina is exactly the same, so I'm confidant it all belongs together.

 

I will re-mount the blade with much nicer Koshirae, and I guess just hang onto the parts-n-pieces.

 

Thanks again.

 

Mark