T-129 Tanaka Kiyotoshi Tsuba

Rare Tsuba by One of the Most Famous Masters of Kinko

Tanaka Kiyotoshi was the master of the famous Tanaka Toryusai School. Kiyotoshi had many students that went on to achieve fame as well, but still, there is nothing like the work of the master himself. Just recently we had the chance to see the famous sukashi monkey fisherman tsuba by Kiyotoshi that is in the collection of the Tokyo National museum. Because of the similar style of that tsuba and the one that we present today, we can see the extent of Kiyotoshi’s great skill, and easily understand why he is indeed a master. The tsuba has an iron plate that looks super wet, with fine use of gold and silver for the accents to the design. The idea of using the sukashi technique for the bird is indeed ahead of its time! Also notice the fine carving of the willow tree especially for its simplicity yet still showing strong life in the design. The well hammered surface is also a plus. A most rare masterpiece tsbua from a mastermaker offered for saleBeautiful gold guchi beni as well. According to the NBTHK certificate, the design is called Gekka Fukuro, or Owl under the moon.

1800’s

Signed – Ryu Hogen (Kao) NBTHK Hozon

6.3 cm top – bottom, 5.8 cm side to side, 3.7mm thickness at seppadai

HOLD