Tsuba from a pole arm mounting.

[Dr Fox]

This tsuba has been sitting in a mounting for a pole arm, and gives the appearance of a sword item.

Or is that an incorrect statement to make?

Either way I am taken with it, I was told the mei is a swordsmiths?

[Soshin]

Hi Denis,

 

Yes the maker of the tsuba is Kunihiro (國廣) a shinshinto era swordsmith located in Bushu Province during the late Edo Period who also made tsuba as a hobby. Haynes states in his index that there might have been four or five swordsmiths using the "Kunihiro" artist name during this time period. I once had one of his tsuba in my collection similar to yours.

[Dr Fox]

Thanks David.

 

For a plain jane, its got that 'thing' about it, 'here I am honest, and ready to work'. David this links to my post on the 'pole arm/wakizashi'

[Guido]

There are quite a few Kodōgu maker who signed Kunihiro. The Kunihiro is considered as one of the founders of Shintō - one of the top smiths in Japanese sword history.

[Soshin]

Hi Denis,

 

Not sure what link you are referring to. The early Shinto era swordsmith Guido is talking about never made any tsuba that to the best of my knowledge. I seen a few of these late Edo Period tsuba signed "Kunihiro" received NBTHK Hozon level papers so I don't think they are considered gimei.

[Stephen]

ither way, i do like the rustic simplicity of it.

[Dr Fox]

Hi David

 

See where you are in your last reply, thank you.

My reference to a link, is to my post on this board, the pole arm which is described by Jean as, Shobu Zukuri came with this tsuba as a fitting.

Regards.

[Dr Fox]

ither way, i do like the rustic simplicity of it.

 

Stephen thats exactly where I live with this tsuba!

 

And on the tsuba subject, the prize I won in the draw arrived this am.

And I am delighted with the attractive way it was packaged, the tsuba itself is fine and more than I had hoped for.

Your involvement is very much appreciated, Thank you sooooo much.

 

I had a premonition some time ago, that I found the whole subject of tsuba too attractive.

Well I am bitten, and will regard this nice item as special, and a start to my eventual financial ruin.

 

I will now seek out James for a thank you.