鉄透かし鍔
Iron Sukashi Tsuba
Dimensions: 7.9 cm x 7.7 cm Mimi 5 mm
An iron sukashi tsuba in the theme of kiku (chrysanthemums), the Imperial seal of Japan. This is a katana size tsuba and maru-gata with a dote mimi. This tsuba is a delight to study and it should be submitted to shinsa. The nature of the web and the dote mimi point to this being a Katchushi tsuba of around late Muromachi or Momoyama times. There is black lacquer remaining on areas of the plate and the character of the iron exposed on the mimi also looks like Katchushi work. The nunome zogan and hira zogan work is integral to the sukashi decoration. This style of detailed application is not seen in Katchushi works but would be a trait of period schools such as Ko Shoami and the Umetada group. Also, the sukashi work and soft metal elements may be an addition from Edo times. If that is the case, it is intriguing to think about the circumstances of this tsuba's second life and how it must have been revered. Tsuba that present a study challenge can be such a joy, especially when they are a visually striking as this example. An ideal tsuba for advanced study.
