This is a scan of Tsuba prior to it receiving Hako-Gaki and fill to both Ana's.
Mei: MYOCHIN KI MUNEHARU .
Mei: Myochin Ki Muneharu.
Ref. Haynes 06041.0. See scan above.
The Myochin Ha's main occupation was as armor smiths, and they made tsuba as a sideline. The Myochin Ha is the main line of the KATCHUSHI, and the number of artisans was the greatest.
During Bakumatsu (the end of the Tokugawa or Bakufu period), the Myochin Ha made tsuba that are well forged tetsu-ji and most were especially skilled at ko-sukashi. Mokko-gata is the most common shape.
This tsuba is exquisitely executed as would be expected of katchushi.
Two gold-plugged Hitsu-ana.
Highly decorative "Mushrooms under Fuji" Sukashi motif.
Early Edo period (circa 1600).
2 7/8"inches x 3 3/16"inches x 7/32"inches thick. Ana: 1 3/16"inches.
With Hako-Gaki.