Thinking of bidding BUT...

[CurtisR]

They appear way too well-detailed for the claimed age AND the back plates appear to have been molded into the body rather than attached. Am I learning something finally, or do other this they may be o.k. and Edo period? I do like the design, but they seem a bit too 'nice'. Opinions greatly appreciated!

 

Sincere Regards,

 

Curtis R.

 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/4696-Japanese-S ... 3273066299

[sanjuro]

Hi Curtis.

 

Not that this is anywhere near my area of expertise, but I have also been looking at quite a few menuki lately and this set does appear too 'new' for Edo period. They also as you have noted, seem a bit homogenous in construction with the posts bearing a 'cast in' type of look to them. I also have some doubts as to the patina. Theres a plated look to it and it is not consistent across both menuki.

 

I share your doubts. At $42 after 3 bids, I would have expected a genuine pair to have had a higher starting price. Could these be cast reproductions I wonder ?????

[CurtisR]

You've expressed my thoughts exactly Keith (and much more specifically so thank you) --- I am betting you're right about a modern cast. I guess I'll wait to spend any $ at the Tampa show vs. being disappointed. I just might be learning something to even notice these things on this pair, which pleases me :D .

 

Thanks & Regards,

 

Curtis R.

[christianmalterre]

Of course you do right in NOT bidding!

That´s Rubbish!-even not worth to have an look on them.

 

Christian

[Baka Gaijin]

Morning all

 

If you look at the rear image and apply the zoom facility you can see that the pins that would normally locate the Menuki to the body of the Tsuka are cast, having the appearance of almost melted chocolate.

 

Cheers

[nagamaki - Franco]

I guess I'll wait to spend any $ at the Tampa show vs. being disappointed.

 

Going to a sword show with the intention of making a purchase before learning makes it possible for a more costly disappointment to occur.

[Pete Klein]

Hi Curtis -- I will be at the Tampa show and look forward to meeting you. There will be several dealers there who along with swords specialize in fittings, including Mike Yamasaki and Cyrus Chan, Robert Benson, Fred Weisberg, Andrew Quirt, Fred Guyer and several others. Just their examples will occupy you for hours and they will be happy to answer your questions I assure you. (bring a drool bucket) I believe at this show there will be a lecture sponsored by the NBTHK AB on koshirae which will be worth attending. There is a nominal fee for non-members but it will be worth it. If I am not mistaken Mr. Yamasaki is giving the lecture.

 

Looking forward to seeing you there!

 

BTW - those menuki on Ebay are real but of very poor quality. They have been coated with a clear lacquer or wax of some kind to cover the imperfections. They really aren't worth consideration for a serious collector.

[Curran]

What Peter said:

 

You can take 5 pokerchips and spin them frisby style as far as possible into the Tampa Main Room. At least 4 of the pokerchips will land on items better than these menuki. The 5th chip will probably peg someone in the eye or smack into a forehead.

 

Make multiple passes around the room. Be polite in asking to handle things, and most people will talk to you. Don't feel a need to buy, though my increasing opinion is that US sword show is the best place to do so nowadays. Just talk to people and learn as much as possible. Try to assimilate it.

 

Volunteer for a half day at the Shinsa if you think you have time. That was an excellent though exhausting experience for me in 2002 and 2006.

[nagamaki - Franco]

First, sword shows can quickly become overwhelming, especially for the uninitiated. If someone with experience is willing to spend a little of their time giving you proper guidance by all means accept it, and don't forget to show them thanks by treating them at the bar or similar. Secondly, it's a good idea to prepare for the show by writing out a few short objectives which you feel are a must do, keeping in mind that there will be lectures to attend and too much to see, in that way you won't be kicking yourself afterwards for not having done those things. Again, be cautious in your approach to having to buy something as tempting as it might seem, at least not until you have learned the basics (which the ebay link that began this thread kind of demonstrates that you are not quite there yet, imho). Yes, sometimes there can be excellent buying opportunities at shows, just as there can be disastrous mistakes sitting in wait for the inexperienced. If there is an item that you feel strongly about seek additional opinions, also keep in mind that one can always take notes on the seller and contact information for after the show. While opportunities can be missed, a careful approach may save having buyers regrets. A few objectives you may wish to consider: meeting particular dealers (check out their websites to familiarize yourself with what they have to offer before the show; Book list; people and dealers from this forum to meet; lectures to attend; nihonto: chance to see swords from specific time periods and traditions (meibutsu displays); see quality polishes; mainline sword fitting schools, iron and kinko; armor, specialty weapons; again, plan ahead, as things can become quickly overwhelming.