Exclus1ve

Hi! Brian said it quite accurately. The mei can be in different places, sometimes even on a plate of pure gold inside. However, as with other tosogu items, it all comes down to the quality of the craftsmanship. The more intricate the work, the more likely it is that it was created by a renowned master who may have included a mei. In most cases, mei signatures are not present, which is normal. This item is genuine. Menuki are less likely to be counterfeited, and you can easily identify them.

It's not my, but it's a worthy example of "live" work.

I can't help but add the reference (in my opinion) quality of the nanako. I hope Marco doesn't mind if I post a photo of his Tsuba) Each point is perfect from any angle. https://www.tosogu.de

I believe that the Soten school or its followers are responsible for this. Most likely, the unusual shape of the cutouts is a result of the customer's request. The style and technique of the carving (the waves stand out particularly) are characteristic of Soten.

An example of good quality: https://www.ncjsc.org/photo-gallery/goto-mitsusuke-kozuka

I'm inclined to assume that it's gimei. The mei is different, but I'm more confused by the workmanship.… The nanako is not done neatly, as is the inlay. However, it's still an interesting kozuka with a classic Goto school theme.

From Bob Morrison collection

Video of one of the works:

Auction houses have always sold and will continue to sell fakes. Sometimes it's due to the incompetence of the auction house staff, but often they know exactly what they're doing — they just pretend otherwise.

Yes, it's casting. And of poor quality.

I've seen examples of Ford Hallam's work more than once, and it's amazing. Can anyone show examples of works of the same level from modern masters?

Absolutely everything is copied... When I was looking for information about my Soten tsuba, I found a similar creation)

Noda Masaaki (1784-1821), late edo. I agree, the works come from different schools, but the main theme is common and quite interesting.

And one beautiful piece of work Noda Masaaki. https://art.thewalters.org/object/51.1070/