MOTOYASU: A FINE GOLD-INLAID MITO SCHOOL SHIBUICHI TSUBA WITH YAMABUSHI MONKS By Uchikoshi Motoyasu, signed Uchikoshi Motoyasu with kakihan Japan, first half of 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Of tate-maru-gata (oval) form with one hitsu, worked in takazogan and shishiabori (sunken relief) with details in gold and copper depicting four yamabushi monks on the obverse and a pine tree reaching up to the clouds on the reverse. The yamabushi were an ancient monk sect, organized militarily from the 10th century. A characteristic attribute are their small octagonal hats, called tokin, which are worn by all four figures on this tsuba. SIZE 6.2 x 5.6 cm WEIGHT 91.0 g Condition: Excellent condition with minor surface wear as well as few small dents, nicks, and scratches. Provenance: French private collection.