Winchester

What does this symbolism represent?

This is being overthought; although good discussion follows. OP’s question, to paraphrase: Why does the shinsa team stop if gimei, rather than provide details based on the objects merit and then note gimei? The major premise: They cannot as a trusted entity start to declare specifics when the subject is false from the start.

Hi Peter, Thank you for your kind note. I personally believe it is one of the Yagami makers based on the carving and quality. In my opinion, it looks better in person than the photos I am able to take. If you click on the images, you can enlarge them. I'd be happy to try and send more detailed photos...as I do not know what the signature says and would appreciate any help in solving the puzzle.

My opinion doesn’t really matter as I am only three years into studying, but my initial thought is that it is higher quality—like Brian said and same reasoning—and probably late Edo.

Peter / BIG, if I may say, you have great skills researching and posting links. I am thankful and have enjoyed learning more from some of the recent ones. Thanks

Congratulations! We share in your joy and accomplishment.

Hope all is well wherever this message finds you. Please keep in mind that although I study our shared hobby daily--I find peace and enjoyment reflecting on the pieces and learning--I am a novice collector and my questions may not be the most articulate. I searched the forum and didn't really find direction, so here goes: Does it make sense to submit tsuba to shinsa that you personally appreciate and would like to more of the history? It's not the case that I am hoping for some remarkable grading that would increase value; I have a personal interest in kuruma-sukashi tsuba, earlier pieces and I'd like to learn more. Plus, however misguided, I feel like I am doing the pieces justice by trying to document them for future owners. Thinking out loud, maybe just buy books more focused on my area of interest...or don't rush...continue to study and enjoy the ride? Thank you for listening to my rambling/musings.

Very cool. It seems to 'grow on me' the longer I appreciate it. Thank you for sharing.

Don't feel bad, OP. It happened to me too and better this than a more costly learning curve. I always thought they were interesting--netsuke--but was focused in other areas of the hobby. I erroneously purchases one similar to yours, but it was only a few bucks. I keep it, because I simply enjoy it and could care less. Best to you and yours--

LOL Jesse, every time I see insect themed koshirae or F/K or tsuba...I wonder if I should send you a link. LOL

Not sure if this would qualify but please feel free to use if it helps. Thank you

That kissaki is massive….

Thank you, Thomas. I really appreciate it. It was purchased by me in a upscale suburb for a reasonable price and what made me question it was the fact that I could not find another example online and the label on the back has the gallery of where it was professionally framed. Wasn't expecting much, which sounds like it was prudent.

I haven't a clue...it appears to be professionally framed. Any idea what the kanji says or feedback? Especially confusing is the gold colored background. Thanks in advance for your help; this is driving me nuts trying to figure it out.

Thank you very much for sharing. The blade is remarkable and a fun study; I really enjoy the hada. The menuki, F/K, are a nice compliment. I am a newer collector (just a few years into the hobby) and wondering given the time period, how big of a deal is it to collectors if the thickness is .76 CM. I have a blade from the same era with these measurements. Thank you in advance and apologize for the digression.

I think it is really cool, Stephen. Nice catch and good eye. Just love it when we can appreciate the beauty; it stands on its' own.

Pine needles symbolize friendship.

I am a total novice, been studying for a couple years only… my impression (probably worth the admission price) is that the hole is related to Buddhism and signifies the moon and pertaining to one’s enlightenment. Feel free to burn or flame me, it’s all good. But my feeling is that this subtlety was to be both peaceful and aspirational. Edit To Add: As long as I am speculating…Bazza you mentioned the placement of the hole being a question….it is my limited understanding that this reflects the time period (earlier or later) depending on location (left or right side) given use.

It was a pleasant surprise to receive via email--been so busy, I forgot I signed up a couple weeks ago. Thank you!!! Great read and service to collectors.

That's really cool, Mark. Thank you for sharing.

It’s really hard for me to tell with one small group photo and magnifying…but you may also have 1-2 WW2 theatre knives and some sort of Scandinavian knife. Shocked this was all $25.00! Heck, even that old hunter knife is $60.00.

I think one of the dealers here, St. Croix Blades has some in this price point. Grey periodically does as well; this suggestion helps ensure that you are getting an authentic nihonto. Mark is correct that you would need some additional qualifiers for us to help. As a newer collector, I understand it is a lot to take in because it really is a journey and not a sprint—learning, appreciating and being moved by this art. But if you just want to scratch the itch so to speak, I understand. Do you just want something authentic or do you have areas of interest? Then we can give better feedback.

The link isn't working for me either, but I believe I read this in April if it is the one from/hosted by Harvard. The author reached out to well-known collectors and others to help formulate an opinion and commentary. I wouldn't dismiss it, but it is certainly not comprehensive nor likely intended to be. Good introductory read I thought. YMMV

Hi Sam, Hope all is well. I am a newer collector as well, but my thoughts may be relevant in this instance. If you have interest in something like this and it has been sitting for a while, please don't 'feel bad' to make an offer. Something is worth what someone is willing to pay and time plays a factor on inventory of any kind...'bird in the hand, worth two in the bush'. Be it this antique store or the set online that Brian shared, I'd reach out and make an offer if interested. It can be good for both the seller (free up cash) and the buyer (get a better value). I'd be a gentlemen about it (not offer $250.00 or something) but on your first post, offer $900.00 cash and see where it goes? Something is amiss with the marketing of these, how many people are going to randomly walk in and want to buy this, know what it is, and pay retail?

Here is a free resource I came across and light reading when on flights for business, which may be of interest: Library University of Illinois on Japanese Sword Mounts and Meanings Hope and trust this may be of interest and helps.