Lot Essay
Although this style of tsuba is traditionally thought to be the work of a katchushi (armor maker), it is more likely the work of a professional tsuba maker of the mid-Muromachi period.
Details
A LARGE KATCHUSHI-STYLE TSUBA
MUROMACHI PERIOD (CIRCA 1500)
The round, openwork iron plate decorated with two bulls, carved in both delicate and bold lines on bodies and tails, eyes inlaid with brass dots, the rim with many delicate iron bones, (some slight old rust and pitting to surface of both sides)--8.2cm. h., 8.1cm. w., 4mm. th.
MUROMACHI PERIOD (CIRCA 1500)
The round, openwork iron plate decorated with two bulls, carved in both delicate and bold lines on bodies and tails, eyes inlaid with brass dots, the rim with many delicate iron bones, (some slight old rust and pitting to surface of both sides)--8.2cm. h., 8.1cm. w., 4mm. th.