MOKKO GATA a four lobed TSUBA form. 83 x 81 Iron 120
Epoque Condition
Middle EDO period. 18th Century Basically in decent condition considering the age. See the detailed photos or email me for more infos.
Signature School
Unsigned HEIANJO school
Theme Technique
This guard is pierced in delicate manner on top and bottom with stylised WARABITE, bracken shoots, and on either side of the central opening with large irregular RYOHITSU shaped apertures of two HISAGO.
The iron plate is finely inlaid on both sides and on the rounded rim with a thin ropped band made in brass,& decorated all around the edge in brass HIRAZOGAN in a design of bellflower blossoms, clementis leaves & tendrils, flushing to the surface, and known as chinese grass or KARAKUSA.

COMMENTS
This KO SUKASHI work is the ultimate in simplification. It reveals the kind of spare form a man steeped in martial arts would select. From this design may derive an idea of the boundless depth, refinement, and virility of the soldier and of his approach to the martial arts. Still, within this severe, unemotional work is a deep humanity that speaks to us today. This strict style marks the dividing line between youthful severity and older warm humanity.
All of these traits make this an unexceptionable work of HEIANJO school, in a style influenced by workers of YOSHIRO school of the KOIKE family in KYOTO and as a gift from one DAIMYO to another. The size, quality of inlay, and condition all confirm the excellent craftsmanship characteristic of this school.