Chinese Copy???

[dwmc]

Recently purchased this Tsuba from Japanese dealer. I'm puzzled with the kanji, I believe it is Goto Chengjo with possibly a Hanayoshi kanji symbol (kao). Was there a Goto smith Chengjo or is this a Chinese copy ???

 

Thanks in advance,

 

Dave M.

[dwmc]

Additional photos

[Jesta]

I can’t comment on the mei, but the rest of the tsuba doesn’t look like Goto work. The nanako look cast rather than punched - take that with the appropriate amount of salt given that I can only look at the photo… 

This is an example of Goto school work with figures:

https://www.bonhams....arly-18th-century-3/ 

[Spartancrest]

Sorry it is mass produced, they can come in several coloured finishes and also a "daisho" pair is available. I will try and find some other examples for you.

[dwmc]

Thanks Justyn and Dale. Agree, things just didn't seem right with the tsuba...

[Spartancrest]

https://www.ebay.com/itm/404336982792

   

There are usually a few getting about at once - except when you start trying to find them!  These also have a stamped in Ume/Ategane with applied colour - no way you could 'pop' them out.

Hey you got a "free" box that is something 

[Spartancrest]

https://www.jauce.com/auction/p1166440099

Starting to find them now - some like this have no 'iroe' colour added.   They were meant to deceive, the cast in tagane-ato is a good touch to look convincing. 

 

The matching 'Daisho' is here https://www.ebay.com/itm/226478001685     US $339.99   WTF!!!!

   

Both hitsu are cast-in on this size. Tagane-ato are the same as the other guard [Lazy!]

 

 A particularly poor cast 'set' from some old ebay sales. [These would not have fooled anyone!]

I really need to do a book on all these fakes - no good just being stuck in my head. 

[dwmc]

Excellent information Dale...Thanks much!

[Spartancrest]

I can't help noticing there is a lot of confusion with the signature - Goto Tonojo     Goto Hosono     Goto Teijo   Goto Chengjo     Maybe Google translate has something to do with it?  Just goes to prove never buy for the signature