Postmarked on August 11, 1886, in Osaka, this postcard provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of Meiji-era craftsmanship. The sender, Shibata Kita, was a specialist in precision cutting tools and operated out of Osaka Honmachi 1-chome, as indicated by the red return address stamp. Within the rectangular stamp is a small oval mark (本惠) that signifies his expertise in crafting “Marusai Bocho” (丸裁巻刀), a specialized blade designed for cutting washi, the Japanese rice paper used in woodblock printing and other artistic applications. These blades were also indispensable for cutting shoji paper, cloth, and other materials requiring precise cuts.
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This letter is likely a follow-up on an order Maeda placed for a Marusai Bocho. The phrasing, especially '如何相成候哉' (how is it working out for you?) and '早速にても御返事被下度候' (I would appreciate your reply as soon as possible), strongly suggests that Shibata Kita is seeking feedback regarding the order.
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