Description MOTOYASU: A FINE GOLD-INLAID MITO SCHOOL SHIBUICHI TSUBA WITH YAMABUSHI MONKS
By Uchikoshi Motoyasu, signed Uchikoshi Motoyasu with kakihan
Japan, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
Of tate-maru-gata (oval) form with one hitsu, worked in takazogan and shishiabori (sunken relief) with details in gold and copper depicting four yamabushi monks on the obverse and a pine tree reaching up to the clouds on the reverse. The yamabushi were an ancient monk sect, organized militarily from the 10th century. A characteristic attribute are their small octagonal hats, called tokin, which are worn by all four figures on this tsuba.
SIZE 6.2 x 5.6 cm
WEIGHT 91.0 g
Condition: Excellent condition with minor surface wear as well as few small dents, nicks, and scratches.
Provenance: French private collection.