Kaneiye Tsuba Collection
The name "Kaneiye" is said to be the supreme tsuba maker in Japanese history. There are two kinds of Kaneiye signed tsuba exist. "Joshu Fushimi ju Kaneiye" and "Yamashiro kuni Fushimi ju Kaneiye". The former is called "Dai-Kaneiye" and the latter "Meihin Kaneiye". Now, they are regarded as the same person and the former signature might be his early mei. The name "Fushimi" in his signature gave a clue to find out when he worked. Considering that Toyotomi Hideyoshi built a Fushimi-Castle in 1592, it seems that he worked from the late Tensho to Bunroku/Keisho period. The katachi (shape) of his works are Tatemaru-gata, Nadekaku-gata, Mokko-gata, and his unique Kobushi-gata. Kaneiye's tsuba reflected the peaceful Japanese scenary and religious subjects with skill beyond description.
Thanks to Mr. James Meyer for his "Kaneiye-Nobuiye Exhibition" Catalog
and Jinsoo Kim for allowing this presentation.
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