Small Collection From An Estate

[Cajunsteve]

I am new to this forum and several years ago I purchased a small Tsuba collection(25) pieces from the estate of an old Austrian collector. The gentleman had no heirs with large collections of clocks, watches, icons, painting, etc which he collected during the 1950-60's. Along with the watches and clocks I purchased the Tsuba. The attorney had no idea what these were, I recognized these from 35 years ago when I purchased and old sword from an Army vet. These were thrown in a bag by the attorney. I separated them and wrapped them for protection. The collector purchased from all over the world, some have Wallis & Wallis auction tags and others with inventory descriptions from the seller or collector? I am a novice and have taken photos(front and back) as sample of my collection. I plan to display these and would like a little information in my display. It is quite a interesting collection iron, bronze, mixed metal with some very nice detailing. I have started research and it is overwhelming as to the periods, schools and designs of these pieces. Any comments, information or ideas as to the best way to preserve these is appreciated. I have about 10 with labels attached to the metal that I'm sure should be removed. Thanks....Steve

[kissakai]

Hi Steve?

Do not remove anything just yet and what have you found out about these tsuba?

By the time I dig out any info most of the more knowledgeable collectors will have already added their comments

The 5th and 6th images are Soten school (as the label states) and looks like a nice example (so many fakes) but no idea why it is not signed

If you photograph both sides and split up the images so each tsuba is numbered it will be easier for members to add their comments

Some nice tsuba

 

 

Grev

[Cajunsteve]

Grev, Thanks for the response. I tried to photograph each one and then the back so it could be paired, I guess a numbered system would have helped. I have basic knowledge of these mostly from what information comes from the tags. I did some research and understand some basic differences(edges,thickness, metal type, and a little on design). Some of these are signed by the makers and this is about a quarter of the total. It's interesting as to some of the designs and the quality of the artist.....Steve

[kissakai]

I didn't realise you had a load more so maybe but just two or three of the hardest to find any info and take it a step at time.

Another way is to again select just a few with the info you have found out and see what the response is

We on the NMB like people who do some research first as it shows that you have put in some time already

 

[kyushukairu]

Hello Steve, the very first tsuba displays the five Confucian virtues: benevolence, justice, courtesy, wisdom, and sincerity ( 仁義礼智信)
Also, the tsuba with the Wallis & Wallis label looks to be signed 'Kunimichi' (國道作)

[Cajunsteve]

Kyle, many thanks I really appreciate it. That's very interesting the five Confucian virtues. I photographed it because it looked different from the others, one of two with Japanese lettering in raised gold. I looked at the Wallis label tsuba and it does look like the "Kunimichi" signature. 

[vajo]

Grev many Soten are unsigned.

 

That one is very nice. Sennin motif?

http://www.militaria.co.za/nmb/uploads/monthly_01_2018/post-4384-0-25723100-1516736635_thumb.jpg