Name (?) scratched on a yatate

[John C]

Hello:

I have a Ryuundo-zo yatate that has what could be a scratched owner's name but I'm not sure. 

Any help would be appreciated.

 

John C.

[Shugyosha]

Hi John,

It does look similar to this kanji: 重 

 

It’s normally read “shige” in the context of Japanese art names but is normally used with at least one other character to make a name. Here’s a link to an on line dictionary for its meaning and other readings: 

 

https://jisho.org/search/重 %23kanji

[John C]

Thank you, John.

 

John C.

[Bugyotsuji]

重 ‘Shige’ can also be a nickname or short form of a person’s name.