KO TOSHO TSUBA

This tsuba is an example of a very early Kotosho sukashi tsuba.  It has a beautiful dark and rich patina with a purplish steely tinge. The sukashi pattern is complex, fine and symmetrical. I have seen other tsuba similar to this from the same period designated as Kokatchu shi tsuba, however, upon close inspection of the jigane of this tsuba I believe this particular piece to be closer to kotosho rather than a kokatchushi. The metal is hard and dense, having a feel more similar to steel than softer iron.  The single kozuka-ana is early as well, and could be original.  This is an excellent and technically complex example of high grade tsuba from the 15th c. This tsuba comes with an older, higher-end recessed box.

Early Muromachi Period

8.3 cm  x 8.25mm  x 0.3 at nakago ana and 2.5 at rim

 

SALE $2,500