Higo Tsuka

Excellent example of an early leather wrapped and black lacquered tsuka intended for fighting use.  The leather wrap is narrow and thickly lacquered with tight knots.  Menuki were once affixed externally, but as later additions, over the lacquered surface. I am  not sure if this tsuka was actually intended for use with menuki, but if one wanted to, a nice set of kokinko yamagane menuki would be easily added with rice glue or kusune (pine tree resin - pitch).  Considering the age and that this was intended for use, there is very little damage to this tsuka.  The lacquer has patinated to a lovely brownish black, and the tsuka has all the character expected from a quality early piece.  The fuchi kashira are original iron pieces of classic late Muromachi to early Edo style.  Alone, or added to a Higo / Kasen or even a Tensho koshirae, this tsuka would be a superb.  Pictures speak for themselves...

Momoyama to Early Edo period (ca.  1600 - 1650)

Length 18.6 cm.

  $500