Did Edo tsuba schools use mo(u)lds for mass productions?

[JAMJ]

Hi all,  I'm wondering if Edo schools made multiple/mass copies of tsuba or if this is a modern ruse.  Several years ago I acquired this "Masahisa" cloud tsuba and recently saw another very similar copy but with unique markings and signature for "Masahisa."  Was it that copies were  made or are these modern repros?

Thanks!

[Peter Bleed]

Looks like a casting. I am not sure that answers your question, but I'd assume this is an Edo period piece.

Peter

[JAMJ]

Thanks Peter.  It does.

[MauroP]

Hi, I think this piece was casted but I'd assume it is not an Edo piece (please, not another inconclusive debate about iron tsuba casting in Edo time ...)

[Spartancrest]

 

Really old post here, there are two types of these cast tsuba. 1. with the hitsu following the cloud shape and 2. those with a smooth outlined hitsu with 'niku' edges [raised border outlining the hitsu]

There is also another pattern that has a wave at the bottom under the nakago-ana that looks very much like a mustache.

Added into this mix are a few variants that have cast in tagane-ato [punch marks around the nakago-ana] always in the same spot but some cast deeper than others. Like everything else they look OK in isolation but when you see 30 > 40 over time you can pick them a mile away.

https://www.jauce.com/auction/h1091812359 or https://buyee.jp/ite.../auction/h1091812359

https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/394651745141  this one is described as "Waves" but clearly it is clouds.

[JAMJ]

So, modern repros then with gimei?

[ROKUJURO]

Probably MEIJI era production with irrelevant cast-in signature. GIMEI would apply to genuine hand-made TSUBA

[Spartancrest]

https://www.jauce.com/auction/u1102507854  The signature is added to this obvious cast piece - note the casting bubbles in the lower portion of the seppa-dai

 

plenty getting about!

https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/354969962783

https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/285002241409

https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/354969962734

 This last one has the outlines of the hitsu [niku] and the typical cast in tagane-ato "punch" marks - though no punch was ever used