立鶴図小柄　安達幽斎　Yusai　Kozuka

Standing Crane Design Kozuka, Signed “Adachi Yūsai”

Adachi Yūsai was a skilled metalworker who excelled in the use of katakiribori (engraving with varied line depth) and flat inlay techniques. He was particularly known for his innovative and expressive depictions of human figures, especially those in motion. In his figure engravings, he used linework with nuanced strength and variation, reminiscent of brushstrokes, creating a sense of depth and dimensionality despite not using high relief carving.

This kozuka (small decorative knife handle) captures the quiet presence of a solitary crane. A highlight of the piece is the subtle sense of motion conveyed in the crane’s wings as it gazes up at the open sky. Such detail reflects Yūsai’s keen powers of observation.

立鶴図小柄　銘安達幽斎

　安達幽斎は、片切彫平象嵌を駆使し、新味のある人物図、殊に動きのある人物の描写を得意とした金工。人物図に関しては筆描のように殊に強弱変化を付けた線刻を活かし、高彫ではないにも関わらず立体感と奥行感のある画面を創出した。この小柄は、ひとり佇む様子を捉えたもので、大空を見上げているその翼にわずかに動きが感じられるところなどが見どころ。確かな観察眼がに備わっていたことを証明しているようである。

https://blog.goo.ne.jp/tsuba_001/e/01907fd53a58e1c84965bc949ca74897