Winchester

I like that tsuba, Piers. If you ever decide to sell it, please keep me in mind.

Sorry for your loss. This speaks to the high level of esteem your friend had for you. It has a nice shape with many activities and is a bit flamboyant (if I may). Doesn’t need a polish imo.

Compelling symbolism. Perseverance through life's difficulties, with grace. The graceful plover over tumultuous waves.

Greetings, I am interested in learning about Hoan tsuba and historical context. Could someone share any resources or provide discussion/feedback? Where to start? Thank you in advance--

I would highly recommend working with Grev. Please buy with confidence. I purchased a tsuba from him earlier in the summer and had some unexpected health issues and he was very flexible with working with me, for which I am grateful.

@Steve Waszak Is this your tsuba? If so, would you kindly share more photos with us? Truly, this is a stunning piece. Wow!!!

I am not an expert but I believe the notion that: a long signature with a date being ‘typical’, is not accurate. ETA: Referring to the date.

I am happy for you and hopeful it works out. Either way, I would count it as a win for the stated reasons you gave.

Steve, my best guess is that it is a property marker or import badge of some sort. I was awaiting rendering an opinion, feeling that someone else may identify it...since no one has, my best suggestion is a 'property marker' of some sort.

A privilege to view, Okan, thank you. I really enjoy the power, balance and iron quality, exemplified in this piece.

Don't feel too bad, Steve. At the Chicago show, I saw some of the fakes coming out of Japan. I believe many collectors would not detect the fake, unless given forewarning. They are getting fairly convincing. The tagane ato, color/ almost bright /shiny in person, were of the few giveaways when examining in person. Good reminder for all of us to view with a critical eye and take our time. (Hypothetical: Your example was lower cost, but what if it was market value and mixed in with genuine pieces?)

May I ask how much you sold it for?

Thank you, Kirill. I always enjoy your posts and would encourage you to write more. It’s a great service to the community and you’re very knowledgeable. Kind regards, Brian

After reviewing this for a while, having interest, I am of the opinion that the motif is “drawer pulls”, with an ancient Chinese meaning of good fortune, peace and a turning point (abstractly). I also think it is Kanayama. I am not an expert, just a student of the hobby.

I am sorry for the loss of your friend, Steve, as well as to the others who knew, loved, and cared for him.

Hi Mark, What time will the educational presentations start? I am very much looking forward to the show! Hope to chat with many of you there. Best regards, Brian

What is a good budget for gendaito? $2,000 - $3,750? I will let you know if I hear of something. Ray Singer has a few on his website.

What is the symbolism of fish inner-ear bones? Uniquely specific, there must be some symbolism that escapes me. From the web (Source: High Emporium Website Link Ref.), general information: 3. Symbolism: Decoding the Meaning Behind Fish in Japanese Culture Fish in Japanese culture are imbued with profound symbolism, representing various virtues and ideals. The koi fish, for instance, is a prominent symbol of love and perseverance. This interpretation stems from the koi's natural behavior, where they swim upstream against strong currents, embodying a relentless spirit and unyielding determination. Similarly, the carp is another significant fish symbol, known for its strength and resilience. The carp's ability to leap over waterfalls is particularly revered, making it a symbol of success and ambition. This attribute is celebrated during the Boy's Day Festival in Japan, where carp-shaped kites, known as "koinobori," are flown to inspire strength and bravery in children.

I forgot to mention that if you go to their channel, there are additional videos to watch. With all the studying I have been doing lately, it's a nice break from books.

In reference to the original post, many on sites like eBay. There are exceptions and a nice tsuba doesn't have to be expensive for its' aesthetics to be appreciated in my opinion, but many on eBay are a bit cringeworthy.

Just came across this video and thought I would forward it to the group for interest. Many thanks to the NYTK for the fun video, entitled," Japanese Sword Fittings Prior to 1600's". Link for Video (Click)

Thank you, Steve, for this informative and thought provoking post. Have there been any articles published on Christian iconography in tosogu--a compilation perhaps, from a specific den or for a particular daimyo that converted? Thank you in advance, Brian

In my never-ending pursuit of tsuba...I believe I came across this a while ago and it was described as a wave, cloud and bridge. I don't recall if it was in a book or on a website. I recalled at the time--and it stood out to me--that the design was very minimalist for what it was purported to be conveying. Just my $0.02 from memory.........

To somewhat address your question OP: Yes, you can get a sense of a timeframe for tsuba based on factors such as design, subject and more. 50 years as you mentioned—for example—is realistic, while a specific year is likely not. If you are seeking the fun of collecting including historical, societal or other factors in a tsuba…you can get fairly close. Note: this is a very simplified answer.

Colin, can you share if you ship internationally? Specifically, the US?