Fuchikashira signed "Teijo Saku Mitsuyoshi" with NBTHK Hozon Tosogu. This signature means that Mitsuyoshi who was a 15th generation mainline Goto master attributed this piece to Teijo Mitsumasa, who was a 9th generation master. It is interesting that there exist tsuba with the same theme made by Mitsuyoshi. It was made in more contemporary style, however deers look almost identical. Those two could have been a great set!
Teijo was born in 1603 in the Ribei branch of the Goto family. He became a second master of this branch when he was 22 years old and took the name of Ribei Mitsumasa. However after death of 8th generation mainline Goto master there was no one of age to succeed him. Ribei Mitsumasa was chosen to become the 9th generation head till the time that designated hair will be ready to take over. It happened in 1652 when he stepped down from his position. He continued to work for Kaga Meada family. Died in 1673.
Made of shakudo with nanako ground. With gold iroe. I am not sure how gold was applied however it looks like it was made with thick gold foil. It sometimes covers just a bit to much, but layer of gold is thick so it has a beautiful gold colour.
Size:
Fuchi: 38 mm x 23 mm x 11 mm
Kashira: 34 mm x 16 mm x 7 mm
In custom made box.
With silver shitodome, they are loose so I did not include them in most of the photos.
