For this new year of the ox I present this tsuba made by Ōkawa Chikō. Mr. Ōkawa was student of Ametani Yūmin, who was student of Ikedo Minkoku, who was student of Unnō Shōmin (in my opinion, the best tsubakō/kinkō of Meiji jidai). Mr. Ōkawa also studied under Itō Masayasu, 17th generation of Edo Itō school, from whom received the 18th generation under the name of Itō Masanori. Because this tsuba is not in the specific Edo Itō style, Mr. Ōkawa signed with his gō Tōhōsai Masami, as well signed Kanō Yoshinobu in honour of the painter who made the design. The tsuba is also based in one made by Yoshioka Inabanosuke in late Edo period. Take look of the detailed work of kebori for the ox hair, it remind me Durer rabbits. Now 12 years ago, this tsuba was selected by the Tōken Hakubutsukan contest, as well exhibited there. Mr. Ōkawa Chikō made tsuba for each animal of the year, and most of it was also selected by the Tōken Hakubutsukan. At his 75 years old he still works at his small atelier in Saitama, and presents tsuba each year in the contest.