Japanese Long Bow

[Edward G]

Have never seen a bow signed before.  Please help with the translation of an antique Japanese Bow which is signed at one end.

Many Thanks

 

Edward G.

[uwe]

First glance, right side “京都” (Kyōto)!

Will have a second view later on…

 

…left side starts with “塗字口“. Not sure about the last kanji, so I spared it out. Hope somebody more knowledgeable chimes in!

[Edward G]

Thank You Uwe S. it appears I have a mystery on this one.  Any further thoughts would be appreciated.

 

Edward G.

[SteveM]

The last two are a name in cursive (grass) script.

Maybe 家知 (Ietomo).

 

[Edward G]

Thank You SteveM, this gives me a makers name with the place of origin.

 

Edward G

[SteveM]

I don't know if its the maker's name. The 塗 above the name (塗 = paint) makes me think its the person that lacquered it, or somehow was involved in the finishing of it. But it's the first time for me to see this kind of marking, so I'm not sure what it means. 

 

The only thing for certain is the location of Kyōto. 

[Edward G]

Steve M. Thanks Again, it is more than we had earlier

 

Edward G

[Chris Colman]

Not a match, but these two old yumi were made by Shibata, the plain lacquer yumi is, i believe, dated 1937, the last kanji on my yumi makes me wonder if there may be a tie in for yours.

the 21st generation Shibata Kanjuro and his son are making yumi in Kyoto. He is well known in Kyudo circles and holds workshops for those interested in making yumi.

regards

chris colman

 

[Nobody]

  On 6/25/2022 at 2:56 PM, SteveM said:

The last two are a name in cursive (grass) script.

Maybe 家知 (Ietomo).

 

Expand  

 

Might be 宗十郎 (宗十ろう) – Sojuro.

After reading the previous post by Chris, I think I can read the last character.

[Edward G]

Thank You Chris & Steve M.  this information is quite informative.

Edward G.

[Edward G]

Thank you Moriyama san.  Your input on this subject is most enlightening.

 

Edward G