Introduction of Tsuba from Wakeido Item Number: E381101 Title: Enso Shidare Sakura Zu Tsuba Signature: Mumei Hikozo Certification: [N.B.T.H.K.] Jyuyo Tousougu Size: Length 80mm Width 77mm Thickness 5mm Period: Last of Muromachi to First of Edo School: Higo Hirata Description During the Sengoku period in Higo Province, Hosokawa Sansai, the lord of the Hosokawa clan, was a cultured individual who excelled in arts such as tea and poetry, having a deep connection with Sen no Rikyū. Under his guidance, the Higo style and Higo tsuba emerged, shining brightly in the world of sword fittings and captivating many enthusiasts. Among Higo, the four families of Hirata, Lin, Nishigaki, and Shimizu formed four branches, all serving the lord and prospering until the end of the Edo period. The Hirata family of Higo is of the Shōami lineage, with the first Hikozo serving Hosokawa Sansai in Kyoto. Following the relocation of the family, he moved to Kumamoto, where he passed away in the twelfth year of Kaei. From his disciples, Shimizu Jingo and Nishigaki Kanshirō emerged, forming the four major schools of Higo metalwork along with Lin Matachi of the Owari lineage. Technically, they inherited much of the Shōami tradition, utilizing materials such as iron, but often favoring colored metals like Yamadō, brass, and copper, adding elegant decorative features such as inlay work and Amida rasps. This piece features a harmonious blend of rich iron and gold inlay depicting weeping cherry blossoms. Overall, it exudes a high level of elegance, combining an ancient charm with practicality, making it a prime example of Hikozo craftsmanship.