Heianjo momoyama period wakizashi tsuba

[roger dundas]

I presume this is correct- possibly Momoyama period.

Not big at 70.5 x 64.6 x  3.6.  Nice iron in my opinion.

The brass inlay is interesting being a lot finer than usually seen, somewhat haphazard with twigs (vines possibly) with small leafs/leaves and flowers I think, taken up to the rim/mmimi but not over and onto the mimi itself.

The outline of the seppa dai area again different being small leafs inlaid rather than an oval line of either inlaid or overlaid fine brass wire or brass rope.

I suppose a katana sized tsuba might be more appealing but the small size here rather suits the inlaid design IMO.

I would be interested in any comments re the above if anyone would be so kind.

[roger dundas]

Oh well, I suppose the question didn't draw any reaction but the reason for posting was looking for any response or opinions as to the small brass decoration, the small leafs especially around the seppa area (is that right?), the few (four I think) flower or seed heads, the haphazard twigs.

A lot of work by the brass inlay worker and not a typical design from my limited experience.

And the period for such brass inlaid tsuba still open for conjecture ?

I think the smaller size doesn't grab some collectors.

I am comfortable with it and that is important.

Roger j

[Chris Colman]

Hi Roger, it looks like Kaga Yoshiro inlay, not all Yoshiro tsuba have the inset mon. Your tsuba looks like a Momoyama period as you say, it is also better quality than some i have seen.

There is a good article on Yoshiro tsuba in NMB downlaod section.

regards chris colman

 

[roger dundas]

Thank you for your response Chris. The 'fiddly' small leafs and flower heads (if that is what they are) were interesting- imagine cutting them down and then  inlaying them. The flowers or seed pods look like space satellites.

The decorative extremes that many Japanese craftsmen (and women and children?) went to, such as 'nanako', fish roe pattern which is particularly impressive, is a monument to these artisans values and skills.

Is it any wonder collectors get so enthused especially with the best but also with some lesser work.

Artistic skills and history both.

Thanks again Chris.

Roger j

[Chris Colman]

Read the article and then look at the inlay through a good magnifying glass you will then see how good the artisans were.

regards

chris