C330. Ko Shoami iron sukashi tsuba. 7.7 x 7.8 x .5 cm. The nakago hisu-ana is .8 x 2.6 cm. Excellent quality, prominent tekkotsu on the rim, pristine condition: there is a lot to like here. The Hozon paper from the NBTHK in Tokyo is dated 2012. Also with the paper is a picture of a different tsuba by Akasaka Tadashige with the same theme: “O Shuku Bai”.

“Emperor Murakami commanded the transportation of new Plum (Bai) trees when they all withered at the Seiryoden palace. The new plum trees were planted and there was a paper of Waka poem attached to one of the trees, “Followed the awesome Imperial decree obediently but how shall I answer if Bush Warbler (O) asks about their lodging (Shuku)?” Emperor Murakami found it was composed by the daughter of Ki no Tsurayuki, a celebrated poetess and the plum trees were from her garden. Emperor Murakami was deeply impressed by the poem, and he returned all of them.”

This tsuba comes in a better quality box with pillow. A former owner’s picture and write up is pasted to the top of the box. You will be pleased with this one; it is fine. $975.