to be or not to be genuine menuki

[Janrudolph]

Good day friends. I have been absent for some time, but not inactive regarding my much-researched katana! I have here a pair of menuki that the previous owner obtained at auction a while ago. It accompanied an Edo period iron tsuba signed "Echizen (no) Ju" and "Kinai Saku". I have both now, and I am entertaining the notion that the pair of menuki might also be Edo, especially since they and the tsuba were taken off the same katana. Let the pictures speak.

Regards

Johan   

[Janrudolph]

I tried having a friend look the menuki over with a hand-held XRF scanner, and he said they were mostly copper. I can only guess that might mean Shibuichi. So I am eager to ask if you guys think this pair might date back to Edo, or should I be satisfied they are a modern reproduction? I'm including a picture taken of the menuki turned around. My friend sounded quite knowledgeable when he said the little studs visible at the back showed them to be genuine. This pic brings the colour out much better. Regards Johan    

[Janrudolph]

So do you think one can tell from the pictures that they are edo or repro?

Regards

Johan

[Brian]

To me they appear original. Don't see anything suggesting repro. Filemarks at the back and the fact that the posts appear added. If they are cast in one with the menuki,. they are repro.
Edo period was a long time. Most fittings we see are late Edo. Seldom original to the sword as fitting were changed many times. But they appear ok.
Search BoB for Tsuba. There is a fairly decent sukashi tsuba there at a good price. If you are into fittings, might be a good one to pick up for under $100.

[Janrudolph]

Thank you very much, Brian! Much appreciated.

Regards

Johan