Tsuba Finish Question

[cspage]

I just bought a nifty little tsuba that appears to have a surface finish of some sort that has apparently left a white residue at the edges where it has lapped into the various ana of the tsuba.  The finish can be also be distinguished from the raw iron in the cuttings of the nakago ana where those closest to the surface received the finish and the deeper ones toward the top of the nakago ana show the raw iron.  Any info, or even guesses, on this finishing of the surface would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

Colin

[Stephen]

Could be a wax, hot water bath will tell.

[Grey Doffin]

Hi Colin,

I hadn't noticed that when I sold the tsuba to you.  I agree with Stephen; wax is most likely.  If so a hot water bath should remove it but I think the tsuba is quite nice as is; I'd leave it be.

Grey

[Ford Hallam]

Almost certainly excess wax. I'd suggest a little ethanol on a cottonwool earbud/Q-tip to wipe it off.

[cspage]

Thanks you all.  I think I will stick with Grey's suggestion and leave it as is.  No sense in going looking for trouble.

 

Colin

[TETSUGENDO]

'A NOD IS AS GOOD AS A WINK...................'

 

 

-StevenK

[Japan2112]

Good decision,

The finish looks nice. Enjoy.

[John A Stuart]

Ibota, huh? John