Winchester

On the above example, which David posted and Mauro shared for additional commentary, the eyes on this tsuba are brass. The later example--and subject of the post--is later and the eyes are gold. I think they are cool, regardless of 1400's-1800's and just like the style. Just so rarely see them, let alone for sale.

Thank you, Tim, for the detailed response / answer. It is most helpful and I appreciate it.

Really appreciate it, Dale. Thank you

Ya…I was apparently lazy in my reply and apologize. My intention was to articulate that these tsuba can be found from 1400’s through 1800’s.

That's a really good idea with the plexiglass (I'm guessing) barrier for the display. Good idea, which I will borrow. Thanks for sharing all the great photos of the festival! Very cool.

Hi David, I understand this is an older post, but I may have some feedback (my opinion after studying) that may be of interest. I believe your tsuba was made as an homage--so-to-speak--of the style from the Kamakura period. I believe it is also mid-to-late Edo; further, any tsuba of this design are not common. Someone mentioned the design being the same on the reverse--this was true with earlier examples, as well. The example that Christian M. posted with 'flames' or 'spikes' is also, perhaps more so, rare. I believe the dimensions of the tsuba, along with the execution of design, give insight as to an early piece or a 'revival' piece. Hope this may be of interest and helps.

Yes, the nakago ana. Sorry for my mistake. From your feedback, then this would not necessarily indicate age on a given tsuba? Again, I am just trying to learn and understand. Thank you

^^^. Regardless if the mei is correct, it is still a nice piece and can be appreciated on its' own merits. Thank you for sharing--very cool.

I feel like I need Columbo on this one: 'Just one more thing...' I've been trying to find source material that will tell me what the story is with older tsuba that are 'rounded' in the center of the hitsu ana. Here is an example from a recent purchase: https://japaneseswor...unusual-tachi-tsuba/ Were these indicative of age? Any information you can share? I believe this is an early piece, but it is frustrating that of the few books I own and hours of searching, I just find second or third-hand references that say it means it's older....Why? More info.? Just trying to understand and learn more is all... Thank you in advance and any opinions on the tsuba are welcome.

Hi Piers, Hang in there and trust the energy will come back when you have a chance to rest. On rare or uncommon items surfacing, I have noticed this across the board in multiple hobbies and collecting groups...I will speak factually, from a US perspective on the timing and possible causes: 1) tax season (people pay in or may be awaiting a refund, etc.); 2) inflation which has been consistent and years in duration, increasing further; additionally, inflation has impacted literally everything, be it day-to-day items (food, groceries, bills) to property, rentals, you name it. It is my opinion that these factors are causing a buying opportunity in a number of markets.

Thank you K Morita. Very appreciated.

Listed as "Continued Luck in Fortunes of War", seeking to verify. I just purchased this and wished to double check: https://japaneseswor...unusual-tachi-tsuba/ Thank you in advance; I did spend quite of time trying to research and had no luck, unfortunately.

Still thinking how to explain this to my wife… very interested. Thinking on it.

Hi Dan, Hope this helps and my experience may be of interest. I went to the Chicago show a few months after I started collecting and my interest in nihonto. Being so new, I was just polite and honest that I was a total newbie and here to learn; what advice may “you” have or share? In this way, folks knew I had limited knowledge but an open mind to learn and study and my experience was overwhelmingly positive. I learned more at the show in a few days talking with people then a week of independent study, easily.

I found Stephen's original pictures from when he sold it to me--hopefully, it is OK if I post these photos, buddy? If not, please let me know. I just cant take photos at all; it looks like I took them with a cheeseburger...... so let's try it again!