Brass, bronze. Japan, Meiji Period, 19th cent.
Another example of a technically masterfully executed Tsuba of the Meiji period, and rarely to be found on today’s art market! Of large Mokkogata form without Hitsu, the view side is offering in a Sentoku alloy an elaborate bust of a Nio (athletic temple guardian) with expressive head, and done as a sculpture. A bird with young is perched in the mouth of the sculpture, whereas another bird is approaching from above. The obverse side presents temple servants holding a rake and a stone lantern Ishidori. Signed TOSHINAGA, and Kao, and retrospective dating Hoei 1705. Possibly a later Toshinaga deriving from this line of the Nara school. Very good condition.
HEIGHT 10,3 CM
From a German private collection