This tsuba presents a dynamic, high-contrast composition typical of the Tosa (Do
The motif flows seamlessly onto the reverse side, shifting emphasis to deep, crashing waves (hatō) below swirling clouds. The maker's signature (土州明珍紀宗英) is crisply chiseled to the left of the nakago-ana. The piece is cleanly framed by an uchikaeshi-mimi, adding structural depth and protecting the detailed high-relief carving within the web.
This tsuba presents a dynamic, high-contrast composition typical of the Tosa (Doshū) Myōchin lineage. The obverse focuses on the dragon executed in deep sukidashi-takabori against heavily carved clouds. Vivid gold zōgan iroe highlights the dragon's eyes, horns, and claws, as well as the surrounding vapor, creating sharp visual distinction against the dark tetsu migakiji ground. The motif flows seamlessly onto the reverse side, shifting emphasis to deep, crashing waves (hatō) below swirling clouds. The maker's signature (土州明珍紀宗英) is crisply chiseled to the left of the nakago-ana. The piece is cleanly framed by an uchikaeshi-mimi, adding structural depth and protecting the detailed high-relief carving within the web.
Toshū Myōchin Ki Munehide
土州 明珍 紀宗英Myōchin Ki Munehide (明珍紀宗英) was a metalworker of the Tosa-Myōchin tradition, active in Kōchi, Tosa Province, during the late Edo period. The Tosa-Myōchin were a regional branch of the Myōchin lineage, celebrated for their skill in forging iron armor and sword fittings. A Japanese maker’s reference identifies 宗英 (Munehide) as an earlier signature of the artist who later signed 宗栄. It records that he used the clan name Ki (紀) and describes him as a skilled craftsman. His work included paulownia and cloud-and-dragon designs, executed with fine engraving, small openwork, and relief carving.