| This tsuba is signed “Fujiwara Shigemitsu, resident of Akita in Dewa Province” and represents the Akita Shōami school. The Akita Shōami developed as a regional branch of the Shōami tradition in Akita, with Shōami Denbei recognized as one of its noted masters. The school is characterized by a bold and unrestrained style, often working in base metals other than iron.This piece is formed in an aoi-mokko shape of suaka (pure copper) with a hammered ground, over which punch marks are scattered. The relief created by the punched decoration, together with the varied surface texture, has developed into a rich and expressive patina over time.Illustrated in “Studies on Akita Tsuba Makers and Swordsmiths,” and accompanied by a box inscription by Kanzan-sensei. It passed NBTHK Hozon Tōsōgu shinsa in 2019. |
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