Tsuba Orientation

[Sporkkaji]

Wondering if there is a correct way for the tsuba to face when mounted on a blade? If standing with the sword pointing away from you and the cutting edge downward, would the kogai (3 arcs) hole be on the left and the kozuka (oval) on the right - or should it be the other way around?

 

I've looked all over for a definitive answer and sites like Aoi-Art seem to show examples of mounted tsuba facing both ways.

[Baka Gaijin]

Good morning C. Lewis

 

I was told that the tsuba shows its face to the world, when worn.

 

In other words, the Omote (Front) Design as would be worn when mounted means signature facing into the Tsuka, Ura (Back) closest to the Habaki and Saya.

 

Thus the Kogai Hitsu ana (the "3 arcs" you describe) should present to the right (as you view it).

 

As with all things Japanese there are always exceptions to this rule.

 

Cheers

 

Malcolm

[Sporkkaji]

Thanks for the reply.

 

So just to clarify, assuming a tsuba is unsigned, has both types of holes, and is more or less identical on both sides, then the first picture would be more appropriate than the second one?

[ububob]

Yes.