Introduction of Tsuba from Wakedo

Model Number: T380801

Title: Ryugu Shisya zu Tsuba

Signature: Syo yo ken Mitsutoshi Nobukatsu

Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Hozon Tousougu

Dimensions: Length 71mm, Width 68mm, Thickness 4.1mm

Period: Late Edo

School: Yagami school

Description
Mitsutoshi Nobukatsu of the Yagami school is the younger brother of the first Hizen Yagami Mitsuhiro. He traveled extensively and became a disciple of Nanjo Toshiyuki's family in Edo, marrying Yoshiko, the daughter of the Miyamoto family. After the death of his elder brother, he returned to Hizen Yagami, took over the family business, and adopted the name Naganosuke, becoming the second Mitsuhiro. The Yagami school specializes in iron tsuba and is known for its skill in depicting monkeys, but this piece features intricate high-relief color inlays with a design of the messenger from the Dragon Palace, showcasing meticulous craftsmanship and high skill. Nanjo Toshiyuki became part of the Hamano school, so this remarkable work can indeed be said to be a masterpiece by the second Mitsuhiro, who trained in the Hamano style in Edo.