Elegant Craftsmanship Tsuba Umetada Shigeyoshi
NBTHK Hozon Papered Edo Period
Description
A refined Edo-period iron tsuba signed by Umetada Shigeyoshi, resident of Nishijin in Yamashiro Province. The composition depicts a graceful diamond-shaped branch adorned with plum blossoms (ume), a motif traditionally associated with resilience, renewal, and cultivated taste.
The iron plate is expertly forged, exhibiting a dense, well-worked surface that interacts subtly with light. While photographs may suggest a pale or whitish tone, the tsuba in hand reveals the deep, rich texture and warmth characteristic of high-quality Edo iron. The overall impression is one of quiet elegance balanced with structural strength—hallmarks of the Umetada tradition.
This example is preserved in a paulownia (kiri) wood storage box and is accompanied by NBTHK Hozon papers, confirming its authenticity and historical significance.
Details
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Artist: Umetada Shigeyoshi
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School: Umetada
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Provenance: Nishijin, Yamashiro Province
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Period: Edo period
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Material: Iron
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Dimensions: 8.37 cm × 7.83 cm
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Thickness: 0.40 cm
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Weight: 160.8 g
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Signature: 「山城西陣住埋忠重義」
(Umetada Shigeyoshi, resident of Nishijin, Yamashiro Province) -
Condition: Good, with natural patina and aging consistent with the period
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Certificate: NBTHK Hozon
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Storage: Paulownia wood box
Notes
A dignified and highly collectible example of Umetada workmanship, uniting refined design with masterful iron forging. This tsuba represents the aesthetic ideals that made the Umetada school influential among both swordsmiths and fittings makers. An excellent addition to any serious collection of Japanese sword fittings.
