Sanemori (真守) is a name borne by two historically distinct smiths. The earlier figure, Ohara Sanemori of Hoki Province, is traditionally regarded as a son of Yasutsuna and belongs to the group of makers collectively known as Ko-Hoki, which flourished from the late period into the early period. The later and more prolific figure, Sanemori of Province, is traditionally regarded as a son of Moriie and was active at during the late period. Extant works by Sanemori bear dated inscriptions from the Kenji (1275--1278), Koan (1278--1288), and Shoo (1288--1293) eras, making his period of activity clearly established. Many of his works carry a two-character signature, though examples also survive with a long inscription reading " no junin Samon no Jo Sanemori ." His workmanship follows that of his father Moriie, and the two are closely related in style, though the consistently distinguishes the son by a tendency toward somewhat smaller-patterned irregularity.
Sanemori's signature technique is emphasizing kawazu-no- -- tadpole-shaped clove patterns whose heads are rounded and whose waists constrict narrowly -- mixed with , , and , producing a flamboyantly varied temper. The side frequently shows especially conspicuous kawazu-no-, a recurring point of interest noted by examiners as characteristic of the group. The forging is typically a closely packed with exceedingly fine adhering thickly, fine , and that stands out vividly. The is bright and clear, the temper is -dominant with , and activities such as , , and scattered are frequently observed. By contrast, Ohara Sanemori of Ko-Hoki displays an mixed with , , and that tends toward , with , a blackish steel tone, and a showing an tendency -- features that take on a markedly rustic character distinct from the refined manner.
The consistently characterizes Sanemori's work as following his father Moriie but distinguishable by the tendency for the irregular patterning to become somewhat smaller in scale and for the tempering not to show the pronounced rises and falls seen in Moriie's work. Several designated works are described as standing among the foremost examples attributed to this smith, termed "white eyebrow" pieces exhibiting notably exceptional workmanship. The tight forging, robust construction with ample , and a condition in which both and are -- sound and well-preserved -- are frequently praised. Signed with dated inscriptions combining residence, official title, and production date are singled out for exceptionally high documentary value. Works at first glance may call to mind a superior work by Nagamitsu, yet the slightly standing character of the reveals the distinctive traits of the lineage. Across the body of designated works, Sanemori emerges as a master of florid, animated tempering within the mainstream, whose individual voice is distinguished from his father's by restraint in scale and a calm, clear brilliance in the hardened edge.