Mystery Tanto

[Edward G]

Gentlemen:

 

Attached are photos of a tanto, which I am trying to research and gain more information.  The sword smith appears to be Yamashiro Tsugu.  I have searched my referneces, but do not see anything on him in Hawleys or Fujishiro.   Any information on what era this tanto may date, or information on the smith would be greatly appreciated.   The nagasa is 11 5/16.

 

 

Edward G

[PhoenixDude]

judjing solely on the rust of the nakago id say probably around 1700s or 1600s

[Ray Singer]

Very interesting tanto, maybe Keichō. Tsugu would not be a swordsmith's name (not as a single kanji 次). I am curious if there is an alternate reading for this mei.

[Stephen]

maybe Gassan ? tsugu

[Edward G]

Thank You Stephen, Raymond Singer, and Bullet Sprinkler.  I am still puzzled as to who exactly is this Smith in regards to researching   It is highly unusual for one to sign his sword with only one character, but not unknown to happen.  However, this appears to be the case with this blade.....Normally, one can find something about a sword smith, but in this case I am short on references.  Please  anyone reading give me some more information or clues.

 

Thanks

 

Edward G

[Stephen]

i see it starting like kanji it top right corner of this text from G T M

glad you came back to this as the second kanji has been bugging me.

[leo]

Hi,

 

Maybe Yamashiro Minamoto  山城源, or the Yama is no Yama but part of the Yoshi kanji, so maybe Yoshimune 義宗

 

Best, Martin

[uwe]

Missing some strokes for the "Yoshi" character Martin?! The second might well be "Tsugu"....