This tanto Tsuba exhibits a very densely forged iron with a beautiful dark brown patina. The large bamboo stem is carved out of the iron, the slightly thinner branches are inlaid in silver and the very fine branches are made of gold. The larger iron leaves fold around the strong rim very naturally and are highlighted with gold inlays. Here and there we see gold nunome application on the bamboo stem. A large bamboo leave is hanging down and forming the Kozuka hitsu. A beautiful design idea by Hidetoshi. The iron work and size of this Tsuba as well as the gold nunome are typical for the Tanaka school.
Seiryusai Hidetoshi studied under Omori Eishu (Teruhide 1730-1798) as well as Omori Hidetomo. He must have been a very late student of these great masters, as his workmanship dates to the early 19th century when both of them had already passed away. He later went on to study in the school of Tanaka Kiyotoshi (1804-1876) and most of his workmanship resembles the typical Tanaka school style. He must have been at least 30 years older than Kiyotoshi when he started studying under him. It is quite interesting to find an artist having studied under famous masters from both the 18th and the 19th century and building a bridge between the Omori and the Tanaka school.
Works of his are represented in great collections such the Oeder collection and the Boston Museum.
The NBTHK Hozon Kanteisho attributes this work to Seiryusai Hidetoshi.
A very fine and charming work by this master.
Comes with a custom made box and the NBTHK certificate.
H: 62 mm
W: 47 mm
R: 6 mm
Sd: 5.5 mm
