Otsuki Mitsuoki Kozuka
KK0001
SOLD
An excellent kozuka signed Tsumitsu with a Kao form of Oki. Wonderful deep black shakudo with excellent carving, zogan, and nanako, in a design frequently used by Otsuki Mitsuoki. 1766 - 1834, he was the son of Mitsuyoshi, and is considered the fourth master of the Otsuki school, though in reality an independent artist. At the age of twenty, he moved from Kyoto to Edo. He studied painting with Nakasawa Rosetsu. After completing his studies, he moved back to Kyoto. He was an accomplished artist and had as many as twenty students. Of course with his fame, came many imitators, and most pieces that bear his signature are forgeries. However, as noted in the note below, Haynes believes that this piece is correct.
Once again, I have to thank Robert Haynes for his generous help and comments. Ref: The Index of Japanese Sword Fittings and Associated Artists by Robert Haynes, H 05375.0 and Tosogu Meiji Taikei by Wakayama, Vol. II, pages 54 - 66. In a custom fitted box
A Note From Robert Haynes
(He amended this saying that Dairyusai would be a better reading)
Tosogu Meiji Taikei by Wakayama Vol. II, page 55