Rick Becker

Thank you for the quick response, Piers. I had actually done a little research on Masakatsu a few years ago and decided to take another look after reading this thread. My interest has been Nihonto for about 47 years, but I freely admit my knowledge is limited and I have no knowledge of Netsuke. Primarily interested in a quick opinion if it looks authentic and the mei looks it could right, based on the photos. It was a gift about 30 years ago. Thank you Rick

I was reading the thread and found it very interesting, so I thought I’d ask for an opinion on my only Netsuke. Any opinions or information would be very much appreciated. thank you in advance Rick

Ray, I had a brief exchange with someone a few days ago who mentioned that this smith was known for yari if it is the same smith. I will keep searching. thanks Ray and Oshy

Thanks Ray, always impressed by your knowledge and willingness to help. Rick

Hello, my name is Rick Becker, this is my first post and I would appreciate any information that any member may have on this swordsmith, Shimosaka Magojiro (I had help translating this one) a Hira zukuri Wakisashi 15 1/4" nagasa, the condition of the blade prohibits me from seeing the workmanship but it could be restored. I can find almost no information on the swordsmith. Hawley shows two smith using Shimosaka Magojiro one Shinshinto one Shinto 1624. Fujishiro list one, the Shinto Swordsmith on page 354 The problem is there is no example of his Mei, he is just listed between Mutsu No Kami Masanori and Jakushu Fuyuhiro. I found it strange that he is listed with no example shown. There is supposed to be some information, photo or something in a book published by the Bower Museum in Santa Ana, Ca. Art of the Samurai Selections from the Tokyo National Museum. If anyone has this book or has any example of a Mei Shimosaka Magojiro I would greatly appreciate your assistance. Photos attached. Thank you, Rick Becker