Tsuba signed "Chohan Oka Tomokata". Tomokata was a 5th generation master of Okamoto Choshu School. He became a head of the family in 1781. He died in 1822 at the age of 69. It is said that he traveled to Tokio to refine his craft there. I think this shows in the design and techniques used in this particular piece.
It does not come with papers however the signature looks very good compared to know examples of his work.
Made of iron with gold, copper, shibuichi and shakudo inlay. Inlay work is really in good taste here. Some inlays are so small that we almost miss them. Great example of high end Choshu tsuba!
Decorated with two scrolls and rod to move them. Based on the composition it is clear that they are moving, did they fall of the wall and we managed to grasp this faint moment when they are falling?
Size: 73 mm x 70 mm x 4 mm
