There is an incredible energy in the way this dragon (Ryū - 龍) emerges from the
Notice how the dragon intricately weaves through the dark, swirling clouds, wrapping powerfully around the central seppa-dai (切羽台).
There is an incredible energy in the way this dragon (Ryū - 龍) emerges from the deep, jet-black negative space. Masterfully composed from a rich palette of dark shakudo (赤銅), brilliant gold, and warm red copper, the fierce, coiling form is captured in stunning high-relief detail. This masterful metallurgy creates a striking visual contrast that absolutely demands attention. Notice how the dragon intricately weaves through the dark, swirling clouds, wrapping powerfully around the central seppa-dai (切羽台). The mei (銘) on the reverse reads Bushū jū Masayasu saku (武州住 正保作) — "Made by Masayasu, resident of Bushū province." Masterworks like this perfectly showcase the dynamic openwork (sukashi) and mixed-metal artistry that makes the Bushū school's aesthetic so enduringly captivating. A truly stunning piece of tosogu history. -Material: Shakudo/Gold/Red Copper -Dimensions: 8.5cm x 7.7cm x .50cm -Weight: 139g
Masayasu
武州住 正保作Masayasu (正保) was a metalwork artisan of the **Bushū-Itō school**, active in Edo (Musashi Province) during the mid-to-late Edo period. He operated within the "Bushū-bori" tradition, a lineage renowned for its sophisticated iron *tsuba* (sword guards) featuring intricate *ito-sukashi* (fine thread-like openwork) and *ji-sukashi* (positive openwork) that often depicted naturalistic or geometric motifs [14]. His technical execution is defined by the use of high-quality, well-forged iron with a deep, lustrous patina and remarkably clean, sharp edges in the decorative cutouts, reflecting the "Edo-chic" aesthetic favored by the contemporary samurai class [12], [14]. While Masayasu is a more specialized figure within the Itō genealogy compared to grandmasters like Masatsune, his work is highly regarded by discerning *tosogu* collectors for its technical discipline and faithful adherence to the Musashi metalworking tradition [14].