A new Tsuba

[Rigbone]

I just acquired this tsuba.

I believe from my research it is a Tosho tsuba. Is this correct?

is early Edo period correct?

Any opinions on it are welcome.

Also, what are the symbols?

Thank You!

it is 3.5x65mm

 

[Kurikata]

Hi Joe,

 

regarding the symbols , all explanation are there: 

Bruno

 

[Surfson]

Hi thick is it Joe?  Usually Tosho are pretty thin.  Yours looks thick but it may just be the shadows. 

[Japan2112]

Joe,

I think Edo is a good call for a few reasons - it is quite thick, the mimi is rounded not kaku mimi ko niku, and its sukashi placement with clean, sharp carving. Those are my first impressions. I couldn't take a guess whether early or not, but doesn't give me the feeling of an early 17th century example.

 

Mark

[Rigbone]

It is 3.5mm thick.

Is this normal for Tosho?

[Japan2112]

Sorry, I originally read 6.5 mm thick.

If it is 3.5 mm thick then earlier (ko) tosho is possible. In Edo era the tosho tsuba began to thicken.  The remainder of my kantei holds, so perhaps early Edo.