Recently our collection received a Koto Tachi blade in guilded brass and gold Koshirae, with a copper Tsuba with a guilded edge.  Although the mounts were in relatively good condition, the Ito needed to be replaced, as well as the leather hangers from the Ashi.

As for the blade, it's a 26.5" long, mumei Koto blade (early to mid-1500's) with what seems to be a combination of Gunome-midare ha and Hako- midare ha, and with subtle Fumbari to the shape.
This was a fun project, I hope you enjoy the pics...




Here is a close-up of the Tsuka, notice the Mon Menuki and embroidered silk under the ito.  I should mention that I had to have the silk plates "cleaned" and stablized because of dirt and decay.




Above: notice the two gold Dai seppa & two gold Ko-seppa, as well as the copper Aoi tsuba with the guilded edge.

Below: the floral pattern on the saya is slightly damaged, but is about 90% complete.



Below: a view of the blade...

Below:front and back views of the Sageo and Ashi...




Here are some pics of disassembled blade.




And finally, here are a few shots of the blade itself. ..





Anyway, thought I would share... Let me know what you think.