Kanayama School An openwork iron tsuba Muromachi (1333-1573) or Momoyama (1573-1615) period, 16th century Almost circular with a square rim, the iron with good dark patination, pierced with a bold openwork design including dakimyoga (confronted Japanese ginger) motifs With a wood storage box inscribed inside by sword scholar Sato Kanzan Marugata tetsuji sukashibori mumei Kanayama deki yoroshii (Unsigned Kanayama, of good workmanship, round [tsuba], iron ground, openwork), dated summer 1964 and signed Kanzan with two seals 3 1/8in (8cm) high