Help wanted on Tsuba.

[Kantaro]

Good evening,

 

I obtained my second learning Tsuba from Japan. Hope it is not a fake.

 

(72mm L x 70mm W x 3,3mm T / inches = 2.83 L x 2.75 W x 0.13 T)

 

(weight 66 gram)

 

Since I am a newbie and want to learn, I would be happy with all possible info!

 

(Is it a fake?/Period?/Age?/Design?/School?/Remarks?/Opignion?/value?)

 

Do you mount your Tsuba or keep them in a box? (I just mounted it to have a look at it, i am aware it did not fit)

 

(The Tsuba is mine and there is no sale or auction going on)

 

Kind regards and thanks!

[ROKUJURO]

Paris,

your TSUBA does not seem to be a fake or copy. To me, it looks like an early EDO (or late KOTO) item, but I don't see details pointing to a specific school. However, I think I see elements of TOSHO and KACHUSHI styles.  

[Kantaro]

Thank you Jean for your input.

I must admit that is an older age estimation than I expected.

Kind Regards

Pâris.

[ROKUJURO]

Paris,

age alone does not mean much. What counts is quality.

[Jake6500]

Hi Paris,

 

Personally I keep my collection in a Japanese style drawer like this:

 

https://www.ebay.com/itm/273779180367

 

Worth the investment if you are intending to start a sizable collection, but probably a waste of money if you're not planning to expand.

[Kantaro]

Is this a good quality Tsuba? How is this determinated?

 

Kind regards.

[Bugyotsuji]

I like it. 

[Spartancrest]

Looks good to me as well - 

[FlorianB]

Quality depends on different parameters, for example handling of the material, craftsmanship, state of preservation and to a certain degree the age. Age could explain and sometimes excuse blemishes on the piece.

 

My advice to a beginner: Look at as many Tsuba as possible to learn. Best in hand, but good pictures will do also, today easily available online.

 

Concerning Your Tsuba the workmanship is certainly not top quality. Whereas the vertical axis out of alignment was made intentionally and could be seen on many pieces, the rim and the sukashi openings lack diligence.

However, it is an honest piece and nice study material. Enjoy it!

 

Florian

[Tohagi]

I like the color and general atmosphere (wabi sabi) of this tsuba.

I would be personaly  happy to have it in my collection even if it's not a masterpiece.

You have good taste IMO.

 

Best regards, 

 

Éric VD