Shakudo fuchi-gashira
Attributed to Yasuda Matagoro (late 17th century)
Designed in shakudo nanako with two views of Mt. Fuji rendered in iroe takazogan and takabori, the slopes of the mountain carved and inlaid with various metals to simulate the volcanic-rock surface, unsigned

With Tokubetsu Hozon Tosogu (Sword fitting worthy of preserving) certificate no. 223743 issued by the Nihon Bijutsu Token Hozon Kyokai (The society for the preservation of the Japan art sword), dated 1998.10.21 attributing this fuchi-gashira to Yasuda Matagoro. 1 5/8in (4.1cm)) (2).
FOOTNOTES
Provenance: Tokugawa Family

Literature: Wakayama Takeshi. Toso kodogu koza, vol. IV Edo kinko ten part II (Tokyo: Yuzankoku, 1972), 285.

The publication above also illustrates an origami attesting the maker and detailing the refinishing, with two dates, 1862 and 1864.

Yasuda Matagoro was retainer of the Tokugawa family and produced fittings for members of the family. His father Yasuda Masanaga had been a retainer of Tokugawa Ieyasu (1543-1616) and had received from him a sizable stipend.