"This is a tsuba with a stone-like texture on what appears to be mountain copper, adorned with black nine-star and paulownia crests. It has a calm and refined feel typical of Higo. Some pieces are cut in half by the hitsu-ana, but there are nine black circles, which appear to be a design of scattered nine-star crests. The paulownia crest is placed in three places on both the front and back, creating a simple yet dignified composition.
The inscription on the accompanying paulownia box reads Hirata Hikozo. The first Hirata Hikozo is said to be the founder of Higo metalwork and is a renowned craftsman known for his association with Shimizu Jingo and Nishigaki Kanshiro. On the other hand, on page 239 of "Higo Metalwork Encyclopedia," a work with a similar form is listed as unsigned and attributed to Nishigaki, suggesting a commonality in their styles.
The inside of the box lid bears the inscription "Hikozo" and the name "Niosaka Masayoshi Kagami," but details about Niosaka Masayoshi are unknown." (Long)
Height: approx. 7.53cm x Width: approx. 7.30cm x Thickness: approx. 4.1mm (excluding inlay). |
