M220.  Large iron tsuba signed Joshu Ju Mitsushige.  7.8 x 8.3 x .4 cm.  The nakago hitsu-ana is.8 x 2.9 cm.  This came by way of Robert Haynes; his note says:

H05405.0  This artist is Umetada Mitsushige.  He also signed Yamashiro Kuni Ju, and was a resident of Kyoto ca. 1700-1750.  He is listed in the Soken Kisho, 1781, vol. 5, page 12.  I have recently added a note to my entry for this name that says ‘also worked in the style of the Saga Kaneiye School’, and this is a fine example of that style.

The work is subtle and time has rendered it indistinct.  I can see large waves and a shore with houses, clouds and a sliver of moon above on the front and 2 ships off shore and a small hut on the reverse.  Tiny gold inlay pick out ropes on the boats and lights on shore.  There is a shakudo pillow in the kotsuka hitsu-ana (nice touch).  Tekkotsu on the rim.  Condition is excellent.  $145.