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Thanks, J E, originally i had the jo, but thought it could be a residence and went to ju, not good at this. This should help me research the title. Thanks very much, maybe the blade is better than i thought or interesting history. Respectfully, Ed F

Dear Steve M and Steve S, thanks for responding. I spent hours attempting to translate, the smith was easy the other kanji was not so may be wrong. I will now attempt to resize and attach a photo properly. Ed F Doc4.docx Doc4.docx

Have a blade signed "Hikita Tarobe-ju Kiyonobu but unable to find any geo-reference for the place or location. Thank you in advance for your effort if known. Regards, Ed F

Thanks for your time and contribution. You are correct these are photos I copied because the owners live in Latvia at this time. They want to sell their collection. I explained I would be interest but require the items in-hand to make a complete assessment. Friday they husband and wife responded they would be willing to send the items. I agree with your translation. I was not aware at the time tsuba are pronounced using the Japanese reading. I compared the Somin Kao sig to one in the MFA Boston collection but it was Katakiri bori style which confused me even more. The photo I sent was inadequate so I've attached the intended photo.

Thanks for your time and contribution. You are correct these are photos I copied because the owners live in Latvia at this time. They want to sell their collection. I explained I would be interest but require the items in-hand to make a complete assessment. Friday they husband and wife responded they would be willing to send the items. I agree with your translation. I was not aware at the time tsuba are pronounced using the Japanese reading. I compared the Somin Kao sig to one in the MFA Boston collection but it was Katakiri bori style which confused me even more. The photo I sent was inadequate so I've attached the intended photo.

Hi Luca, I am interested in the Mon as well. You requested to know if anyone else has seen it so I am attaching a photo. Its called a Heienjo zogan but I'm not sure. In this example the inlay is hira zogan as can be seen. I was thinking Yoshiro but am very confused. Thanks for your post, EdF

Thanks Steve, my suspicion was that it looked to be 19th century that I believe is too late. I did read that the master "Somin" sig was at least used by 4 of his students. I am still curious as to the reading in the gold cartouhe if it is convenient or anyone else that may know. Thank you very much, EdF

Looking at Tsuba being offered for sale. Attempted to translate signature but after concluding Munechicka was wrong and finding a sig Somin/Kao, I think it may be a potential big name. My research has led me to Yokoya Somin but I turned up little in this technique of workmanship except for an 18th cent piece in the Peabody Museum Salem MA. Those that responded to my post asked to post a photo however, I felt that this would be a more appropriate place to post. I have been unable to translate the cartouche characters on a gold background which I am sure would help and makes me think its a qualifier of sorts of the local, date and artist. The second thing that raises my interest are the stamp markings on the sekigane of both sides or the item almost suggesting a deliberate effort & certification by the artist? The condition of the tsuba appears good and not abused. I am waiting hopefully, for tis to be sent so that I can examine in hand for obvious reasons. The attached photos are from photo copies. Am hoping for a translation and confirmation of my thinking as well as if the item may warrant papering. Thank You in advance respectfully, EdF

Hi Kyle, researching tsuba myself, Tetsugendo is a direction i would explore, Yokoya Somin and the painter (a friend and possible collaborator. His style became very popular in Edo. MFA Boston collection exhibits one on google under Yokoya Somin for a look. good luck just 2 cents. EdF

Hi Zanilu, I will post a photo but after reading Haynes (Aesthetic Study), and previous posts on this site i'm confused. Give me some time to learn how to upload and i'll send. I am attempting to determine the same thing, pls be patient crazy schedule not sure i can help. Respectfully, EdF

Hi Zanilu, I would like to know if Hira zogan was employed by heianjo as well as Yoshiro school in Kaga. I have some with taka zogan which tempts me to think onin and heianjo. The openwork leads me to kaga yoshiro however it is only speculated around 1600 when he relocated there. The design/inlay is classic Yoshiro. At least as far as MY research as led me. Ed F

Hi all, I think Kunisada took Toyukuni name (his teacher?), after he died and was then known as Toyukuni III. EdF

Hi again Mark, If framed keep out of any direct light and florescence behind UV glass and with rag matting pref glazed. They will fade and loose their vibrance. I have several. Also u may find they were printed after 1875 but before 1900. I believe the emperor banned kabuki after the refomation for a period of time. His history should be readily avail on internet. EdF

Hi Mark, These are Actor prints of famous actors portraying events in Kabuki plays by Kunichika based upon a quick view of your photos.

Hi Yamabiru, It may be just a declaration. They are sold here openly at auctions and even modern ones in retail outlets plus internet. I would check anyway. Ed F