Ordering Number: AF24600

Daisho Tsuba:Hachinoki(NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Tosogu)
Inscription: Nishigaki Kanpei　Saku
西垣勘平作

Dai
Dimensions: 7.57 cm x 7.37 cm x 0.44 cm (2.98 in x 2.90 in x 0.17 in)
Weight: 103 g

Sho
Dimenshions: 7.14 cm x 6.88 cm x 0.50 cm (2.81 in x 2.71 in x 0.20 in)
Weight: 88 g

Era: the early Edo period
Features: On the iron plate, Hachinoki(plum, cherry, and pine) is engraved with openwork.

About the Metalsmith:
Kanpei Nishigaki, the younger brother of Kanshiro Nishigaki, is a prominent figure representing the Nishigaki school of Higo metalsmith.

Explanation of the theme: The Tale of "Hachinoki"
The theme of "Hachinoki" refers to a well-known story rooted in a Noh play believed to have been created during the Muromachi to Kamakura period. It symbolizes loyalty, devotion, and the virtues of the samurai spirit.
The story revolves around Hojo Tokiyori、who was the 5th regen of Kamakura　Shogunate, disguised as a traveling monk, who visits a poor samurai during his journey. To help Tokiyori withstand the cold, the samurai cuts down his cherished potted trees—plum, cherry, and pine—and burns them as firewood. Moved by the samurai’s selflessness, Tokiyori later rewards him with three estates named after the sacrificed trees: plum, cherry, and pine. Overjoyed, the samurai gratefully returns to his homeland.
This tale is remembered as a moral lesson exemplifying loyalty, dedication, and the virtues of the samurai.

From Aoi Art:
This iron tsuba features exceptionally well-forged steel with a smooth, rich texture and a lustrous color reminiscent of fine yokan (sweet bean jelly). Not only is the metalwork and craftsmanship of this piece remarkable, but the theme itself is deeply inspiring. Like the samurai in the story of "Hachinoki," when encountering someone in need, extend a helping hand without concern for their appearance or status, doing what you can within your means.The sun above surely sees your good deeds.

In Kiri box
NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Paper
Aoi Art estimation paper

Auction Starting Price: 450,000 JPY

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