T232.  Shakudo kotsuka with fine nanako and 3 deer.  I believe this design alludes to Nara Koen (Nara Park) which is famous for its deer.  3 deer, 2 in shakudo and the other with gold, are set on a very fine nanako ground.  This is early, either Ko Kinko or Kyo Kinko, and came out of Col. Dean Hartley’s collection.  Except where the deer and branch have protected the nanako, it has been worn smooth; this kotsuka spent a very long time being worn in a sword mount.  This is very good quality shakudo and condition, except for the wear, is excellent.  $300.