Hamano Nara Kozuka - Fork
KK0036
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A very nice kozuka signed, Bosoken Naoyuki. The first generation Hamano Naoyuki was a student of Hamano Shozui. This example is in wonderful condition, although some enterprising nineteenth century British, decided that these would make a lovely set for high tea. So silver forks had been fitted to the kozuka to be used left handed, in proper British manner. I suspect that they are glued, rather than soldered, since the heat would have damaged the patina. So I imagine, the forks could be removed with a little work, if ao desired. I have found that his signatures varied considerably. The first generation Hamano Naoyuki is an important enough artist that Wakayama devoted ten pages to him in Tosogu Meiji Taisei, Vol. 1, pages 163 - 173. There are two examples of this title on page 167. Haynes, The Index of Japanese Sword Fittings and Related Artists, Vol. 2, H 07424.0, paragraph illustrated below.
Since this has never been to shinsa, I can not say 100% that the signature is correct, so I am pricing this as an attractive item. If it would pass shinsa, the buyer would be grinning from ear to ear. If not, it is still a very reasonable purchase.
The Index of Japanese Sword Fittings and Related Artists, Vol. 2, H 07424.0
Tosogu Meiji Taisei, Vol. 1, pages 165 & 167