| An excellent iron tsuba attributed to Ko-Akasaka. All Ko-Akasaka tsuba are unsigned and are regarded as the early works of the Akasaka school.This tsuba depicts a Musashino scene, with reeds and dewdrops rendered in an exceptionally refined openwork design. The plate is thick and substantial, forged from high-quality iron. With the passage of time, the laminated three-layer construction of the plate has become clearly visible, adding to its character and appeal.While it is often difficult to distinguish among the first three generations of the Akasaka school, it is said that the seppa-dai of the first master is characterized by a pointed upper end, that of the second master by a longer and thicker shape, and that of the third master by a broader and more rounded form. The first master is particularly admired for the dignity of his designs and the superior quality of his iron. Judging from these characteristics, one would hope that this tsuba may be the work of the first-generation master.A superb example of an Akasaka iron tsuba.Passed the NBTHK Hozon Tosogu shinsa in 2021. |
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