TETSUGENDO

Jean, I believe it is a cabinet for commemorative medallions like the ones above, not medals. -S- p.s.-A quite desirable item.

Could be several things? The figure IS reminiscent of an Oban Dancer! Cheers, -S-

Thanks Peter, gorgeous Bonsai, beautiful and thought provoking music. What a great way to start the day! Cheers, -S-

Sorry that you read it differently, but I still feel the aesthetic issue was well covered. Again, my feelings are very different from John's, but he has a right to his opinion. Likewise, you are free to share yours.. discussion enlightens us all ! -S-

They look like Carpenter Ants. -S-

Leon, Looks like a Japanese motif, but not sure whether it's a menuki, as Chris mentioned, or just an ornament. The ivory piece it is attached to appears to be an antique cuff button, they were used to attach celluloid cuffs to shirts made from the Victorian era thru to the1920's. -S-

If anyone would actually take the time to read John's statement, they would realize that he has considered all the issues concerning tsuba storage. This includes aesthetics, he even properly quotes sources, safety, efficacy, durability...all the pros and cons. Bottom line is, he has chosen what works for him. Whether we agree with this choice, I do not, is to miss the point. We have all seen his many fine pieces, it's doubtful that his choice is driven by a lack of means. His things, his choice...no need for condescension. -S-

Sounds good Andi, but just to be safe you could include a small packet of desiccant...that would alleviate moisture concerns. -S-

Andi, It's a much more substantial design and transport for a brief period of time shouldn't be a problem, but how likely is it to open if dropped? -S-

John, As Chris mentioned, the space savings and handy presentation do offer some pluses, but they are outweighed by the shortcomings. You listed all the reasons why this is not a good idea in your statement, they should be more than enough to dissuade you from using them. Also, have you ever dropped a CD case on a firm surface...what happens to the CD? Enough said. -S-

Very fine looking sword Chris ! Cheers, -S-

Very theatrical Chris, if you two were going for drama and an air of mystery you've achieved it...your daughter must have enjoyed managing the 'Special Effects'! -S-

Robert, What a convoluted journey, no matter, all is fine and after many calculations, it's a perfect fit...80mm the magic number... Congratulations! If you decide on further exploration in the future, and find something of additional interest, please let us know. -S- p.s.- thanks, to all our tireless translators

Interesting design, a nod to two great Nara masters : fuchi- Tōu , kashira- Jōi. -S-

Now we just wait on Cinderella! -S-

I agree, it does feel late Ford, perhaps something made 'en masse' for the western market, that might explain the haste and economy of manufacture. If it was made late enough it may incorporate western production methods. The place of origin Edo/Tokyo seems spot on, it probably explains the 'over the top' Yokoya/Ōmori flavour. -S-

-S-

Bruno, Still an interesting piece worth owning, an attractive hommage to Umetada Myoju. Cheers, -S-

Also, the work is generally tighter, sometimes with repetitive geometrically arranged patterns relieved with fine engraving. Myoju school work is, in contrast, well balanced asymmetry. IMHO, the loose workmanship suggests one of the later branch schools, 'in the style of Umetada Myoju', and a 19th century production date. -S-

Pietro, Thank You! Since the piece you linked to was already sold the matter is meaningless. As I suggested check items you like with a web search, then you'll have something to base a decision on.....odds are some values exist on the site. Cheers, -S-

Pietro, I took a look at several different areas I'm familiar with, and this place doesn't look like its offering any 'Bargains". For example, the tsuba are of little interest because they are: 1-undesirable types, 2-in extremely poor condition, 3-dubious...or any combination of the same, hence the low prices. The Chinese ceramics are less desirable types priced at market value or slightly above. I could go on but the story is, more of less, the same in the other categories I reviewed. My advice would be to check the web for prices on any items that catch your eye. I'm afraid this is a case of "You get what you pay for" Happy hunting. -S-

Yes, Bruno. Both the style and motif exhibit a definate Umetada influence. -S-

Thank you Krystian, glad to assist. -S-

Krystian, Here is some information that may interest you.... BTW, your F/K is Hamano school. -S-

Happily so, beautiful pieces Jeremiah! -S-