Antique Signed Tsuba for Samurai Swordwith NBTHK Hozon Certificate

Description

Antique Tsuba for Samurai Swordwith NBTHK Hozon Certificate. Shipped with USPS First Class.
Description
Oval-shaped Tsuba was made from Shakudou. As Shakudou contains copper and a little amount of gold, it makes glossy purplish-black color. Chrysanthemums are colored with gold, and running waters are engraved at the back of flowers. It is said that running water pattern will wash hardships or misfortune, prevent fire accidents. Also, as running water is clean, people have a positive impression of this design.
Chrysanthemum once was used as a medicine for getting long life in China, and it was brought to Japan with this thought in the Nara period (648-781). This flower symbolizes the fall, and people appreciate it very much since ancient times. As its petals form radially, chrysanthemum has been likened to the sun. That is why the chrysanthemum pattern is treated as the symbol of perpetual youth and longevity or good health. This flower pattern is well-known as a noble design.
This Tsuba was made by Masanaga (正永), who was belonged to the Ito school. The first of Ito school was Masanaga (正長). He worked as a Tsuba maker for Daimyo (Japanese feudal lord) or the Edo government. This Tsuba’s creator, Masanaga (正永). He did well in the late Edo period (1781-1867). Ito school prospered from the middle of the Edo period to the late Edo period. Although there were several Tsuba makers in this school, Masanaga (正永)’s works were highly appreciated. Ito-style Tsuba is very popular today.
This Tsuba is recognized by The Society for Preservation of Japanese Art Swords, which is known as NBTHK.