Kura and Abumi

[GeorgeLuucas]

Not sure if this is the right subforum or not. Please move if I’m in the wrong place 

 

This set of saddle and stirrups have been at a local antique store for about a year now. I take a look at them every time I visit, but they are behind glass 

 

Any thoughts on age, quality, or authenticity? 
Cheers,

-Sam

[GeorgeLuucas]

[Luc T]

You should look at the back of the saddle.  If it’s signed, it’s there.

 

[GeorgeLuucas]

59 minutes ago, Luc T said:

You should look at the back of the saddle.  If it’s signed, it’s there.

 

Thank you. Next time I stop in, I will ask to view it outside the case, look for a signature, and get some better photos 

 

 

[uwe]

Authentic at first glance, IMHO….

[Matsunoki]

Sam, they look genuine, probably late Edo but not great quality nor great condition. The more desirable Abumi are russet iron with inlay….silver, brass etc and often signed. These look to have a lacquer finish that is cracking badly and chipping. Despite their obvious decorative appeal good Abumi never seem to command a price that reflects their quality so lesser quality pieces will really struggle. That’s probably why they are still in the shop. Spend more, buy better would be my opinion.

…….I’ve been looking for a good pair for some time now……still looking!

Best. Colin

[GeorgeLuucas]

Thank you Colin, and everyone! 

Every time I go antiquing, and find something Japanese that's listed as a "samurai" item, it's either extremely over priced, or extremely underpriced.

I had my hopes up that this might be one of those underpriced items. Maybe next time! 

Thanks again!
Cheers,
-Sam
 

[Matsunoki]

5 minutes ago, GeorgeLuucas said:

I had my hopes up that this might be one of those underpriced items.

Sam, A good way to get a quick feel for the (any) market is to go on Bonhams website (major auctioneers of all things Japanese/Samurai) and search PAST lots for “Abumi”. You can scroll though many examples but concentrate on what was sold and what wasn’t sold…..anything overestimated usually fails. Anything badly damaged usually fails. It’s extremely interesting and you  will notice a huge gulf between the best and the rest. 
Nice way to pass an hour or two. Enjoy. Colin.

[Bugyotsuji]

$1,450 is not way overpriced. Quite reasonable, especially if it’s been there for a while and the store owner is open to offers.
 

The only question is how much you personally like the set. Will it give you pleasure every day, every time you set eyes on it, regardless of what others might say? Some things do just that.

 

Besides, a really bling, er… uh… nice set will probably cost you a ton more than that.

[Brian]

Sam,
I considered these for ages before reluctantly deciding I can't drop $1000 currently. But to me, they are really nice work for the price, and well signed.
I think the price is very good. Maybe they are still available because it's GB and not eBay. Anyways, in case you are interested. No saddle, but pleasing stirrups for the price.
https://www.gunbroker.com/Item/994236129

[Matsunoki]

12 minutes ago, Brian said:

No saddle, but pleasing stirrups for the price.

Beautiful. If these were UK or the seller would ship internationally I wouldn’t hesitate. Of course could be “last minute bidding war” but boy these are looking cheap! …..and lovely condition. Someone buy these for goodness sake!🙂 

[GeorgeLuucas]

I've decided to save my money for Blades and/or Tosogu, where my current interests are.

A fellow forum member reached out, and is looking for something like this. I am hoping they are able to purchase the set, and save it from the antique store shelves.

Getting it into the collection of someone who will appreciate it - is a win for me! 

Thanks again everyone!
I'll be spending my day on that Bonhams website,
Cheers,
-Sam

[Winchester]

Hi Sam, Hope all is well. I am a newer collector as well, but my thoughts may be relevant in this instance. If you have interest in something like this and it has been sitting for a while, please don't 'feel bad' to make an offer. Something is worth what someone is willing to pay and time plays a factor on inventory of any kind...'bird in the hand, worth two in the bush'.

 

Be it this antique store or the set online that Brian shared, I'd reach out and make an offer if interested. It can be good for both the seller (free up cash) and the buyer (get a better value). I'd be a gentlemen about it (not offer $250.00 or something) but on your first post, offer $900.00 cash and see where it goes? 

 

Something is amiss with the marketing of these, how many people are going to randomly walk in and want to buy this, know what it is, and pay retail? 

 

 

[uwe]

13 hours ago, Brian said:

Sam,
I considered these for ages before reluctantly deciding I can't drop $1000 currently. But to me, they are really nice work for the price, and well signed.
I think the price is very good. Maybe they are still available because it's GB and not eBay. Anyways, in case you are interested. No saddle, but pleasing stirrups for the price.
https://www.gunbroker.com/Item/994236129

Kuninaga, probably 17th century. Indeed nice 👍