Steve Waszak Posted July 1, 2016 Report Posted July 1, 2016 On offer is a high-quality iron Umetada hana-sukashi tsuba. This piece is very similar in design and motif to the tsuba Sasano calls a ko-Umetada on page 89 of his "gold book." The tsuba here, though, is considerably larger than that in Sasano's book, measuring 78 x 6mm, so clearly a katana sword guard. I have not been able to determine what sort of blossom comprises the motif here, but as with Sasano's example, it is six-petaled. The hitsu-ana is very adroitly formed, echoing the fullness of the shaping of the petals. The surface is migaki-ji---a very smooth, almost glassy finish has been applied. Despite this, there are subtle signs on the surface of the finishing process (hammering, filing). The color of the tsuba in sunlight is a deep blue- or purple-black. All of these features combine to leave a very rich expression of tsuba art. On a koshirae, this sword guard would be even more beautiful. Condition is excellent. $950.00, plus any applicable pay-pal fees and shipping. Cheers, Steve
Daso Posted July 2, 2016 Report Posted July 2, 2016 Beautiful and powerful. That is one I would love to have !!!!!
johnnyi Posted July 2, 2016 Report Posted July 2, 2016 Beautiful tsuba and a mystery on the blossom. I hope some people chime in with ideas while its still up there (which shouldn't be long ) As apparently it is confirmed as being Umetada, you might expect it to be a plum, but that has five petals. Gardenia might work, but "secret love" seems a little too personal for a tsuba. Regards, John I
Livio 3rd Posted July 2, 2016 Report Posted July 2, 2016 Tessen (clematis) blossom? Seems to correlate with the petal count in Tessen kamon. An argument could be made for some examples (though not all varieties) of clematis petals I find in Google Images.
Steve Waszak Posted July 6, 2016 Author Report Posted July 6, 2016 One-time price drop from $950 to $875. The price will not go lower than this... Passing tarts and all that... Steve
Steve Waszak Posted July 10, 2016 Author Report Posted July 10, 2016 Okay, this is TRULY the lowest I can offer this beautiful tsuba for. $800. Plus shipping, etc... Hard to find tsuba this good for such a price... Steve
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