With an “hirabori” decoration of a dragon in “Jingo” style purchasing the flaming pearl, the eyes enlightened with gold “takazogan”, the back with a cloud pattern. “Mimi” with incised diagonal lines. “Waxy” patina with the aspect of a maroon leather with bluish luster. Signed “Tou” on face, and “Yasuchika” seal on reverse.

“Tsuchiya Yasuchika” (1669-1740) is one of the three Great “Nara” masters (“Nara Sansaku”). Most people think that he made his early work under the “Shoami” school (who dominated the “Shonai” region), style with which he also finished his life. Around 57 years old he became a lay-priest, changed his name and signed his creations with “Tou” (Eastern rain). After him five generations of artists followed, it seems that only one or two students recovered this pseudonym.