Iron Mokko Tsuba signed "Nobuie"

[Steve Waszak]

Offered here is an iron mokko sword guard signed "Nobuie."  I do not believe this is the work of either of the two early Nobuie masters.  The mei features details that appear to combine characteristics of the signatures of the Shodai and Nidai Nobuie, and the work is clearly expressing the aesthetic sensibilities we associate with the Shodai and Nidai.  I believe this dates to the early Edo Period, and could, perhaps, be the product of a Nobuie workshop that had some association with the early smiths.  This guard presents with a strong kikko (tortoise-shell) motif done as a pattern over a plate finished in expressive tsuchime.  The rim is of uchikaeshi form, as is usual with Nobuie mokko sword guards, and is in excellent condition.  Interestingly, there is a very similar work included in the Nobuiye Tsuba Shu, the collection of rubbings of Nobuiye tsuba by Nakamura Kakudaiyu published in the 19th century (see photo of the present tsuba alongside the piece from the Tsuba Shu).  The work included by Nakamura is mumei, so no direct mei comparison is possible, but it is clear enough that the aesthetics involved are closely related. 

 

Dimensions are 7.9cm x 7.5cm x 5mm at the mimi.  $950 plus shipping.

[Steve Waszak]

Weekend price drop to $875, plus shipping.