T178.  Kotsuka in shibuichi, katakiribori and signed with a kao.  Shibuichi is an alloy of copper and silver (pretty sure that’s what this is).  Katakiribori is carving with a V chisel and angling the chisel to give varying widths of cut, to mimic an ink painting.  This piece is quite nicely done.  Sorry; I don’t know which artist’s kao this is.

The joint at the sides of the mouth of the kotsuka is open for 1/4″ down either side.  Otherwise condition is excellent.  $125.