Page 316 - Japanese marks and seals on pottery, paper and other objects.

278 LACQUER, ENAMELS, METAL, WOOD, IVORY, ETC.

Although the character signifying }^ear, or period, used
upon works in bronze is similar to that found upon pottery,
and is read as Nen when found in connection with year
periods only, it is called Toshi when used with the name

TOSHI. TOSHI. GENKOKU NI Kl-SHI TOSHI.
Vi'ar or period. The Zodiac Year of the Snake^
the second year of the period of Genrokn.

Sometimes the word Imono, a casting, forms part of
the inscription engraved upon works in bronze.

IMONO.
A Castif/£\

The custom of assuming titles is not uncommon amongst
artists in Japan, and a favourite one amongst the makers
of sword-guards appears to have been that of Niudo, which
means a layman who has shaved his head, after the fashion
of a Buddhist priest.

X.
a.
NIUDO. NIUDO. NIUDO.