説明

Antique Japanese Sword Katana Signed by Sukehiro with NBTHK Hozon Certificate 【Description】 This blade was signed by “Sukehiro” (助広). According to the NBTHK certificate, it was forged in the late Muromachi period. However, since multiple swordsmiths with the same name existed at the time, the exact identity of the maker remains uncertain. The Muromachi period (1336–1573) was a time of great cultural and political transformation in Japan. Its later years are especially known for the Sengoku Jidai, or “Warring States period” (c. 1467–1600), when Japan was fragmented into territories ruled by competing warlords (daimyo), often in constant conflict. This turbulent era gave rise to many practical, battle-ready swords as the demand for weapons surged. At the same time, it was also a period of flourishing traditional arts, including tea ceremony, Noh theater, and ink painting. Swords forged during this time often reflect both the aesthetic refinement and the practical needs of a society shaped by war. This blade is appraised as a Hozon Touken (保存刀剣) issued by NBTHK (Nihon Bijutsu Touken Hozon Kyokai: 日本美術刀剣保存協会). This authentication paper was only given to authentic Japanese swords, well preserved and high quality with artistic value. *Please keep in mind that there is a couple of Kitae Kizu on this blade. If you like to see the detailed condition, please feel free to contact us. 【Blade】 Cutting Edge Length (Nagasa) : 66.6 cm ( 26.2 inches) Curvature (Sori) : 1.8 cm (0.70 inches) Hamon : The crystalline structure which forms along the cutting edge of a blade as a result of the hardening process. Jimon (Jihada) : Visible steel surface pattern created by folding and hammering during forging process. Kissaki : Kissaki is the tip of the Japanese sword. Nakago : Nakago is the tang of the Japanese sword. Japanese swordsmiths left the black rust on the tang because it prevents red rust while the tang is in its handle. And the discoloration of the tang was created over time, and it is a great indicator for a Japanese sword specialist to estimate when the sword was forged. Koshirae : Koshirae is the mounting of the Japanese sword. There are several parts that consist of Koshirae such as Saya (Scabbard), Tsuka (Handle), Tsuba (Handguard). Fuchi-Kashira : A pair of matching sword fittings that cover the upper and bottom parts of its sword hilt. Tsuka and Menuki : Tsuka is the handle of the Japanese sword and Menuki is its decoration. This menuki appears to feature a kinchaku (巾着, traditional drawstring pouch) as its motif. In the past, kinchaku were used to carry coins and valuables, and they have long been regarded as auspicious symbols of good fortune, wealth, and prosperity in business. Tsuba and Habaki : Tsuba is the handguard for the Japanese Sword and Habaki is the equipment to make the blade not touch its scabbard inside. It prevents the blade from getting rusty and chipped. This iron tsuba features a stylized wave pattern (波紋, nami-mon ) rendered in openwork ( sukashi ). The dynamic curves evoke the motion of ocean waves—a motif often symbolizing strength, resilience, and the ever-changing nature of life. Such designs were popular among samurai, who admired the power and beauty of the sea. The endless movement of waves also came to represent eternity, immortality, longevity, and the cycles of life. As tides continually reshape coastlines and erode stone, the wave motif was embraced as a symbol of an indomitable spirit—the will to persevere and rise again, no matter how many times one may fall. Its bold and flowing design made it especially popular for use in men’s kimono and other traditional garments. One geometric variation of the wave motif is Seigaiha (青海波), or “blue ocean waves.” This repeating fan-like pattern symbolizes the blessings of the vast sea and has long been regarded as auspicious. It conveys wishes for enduring happiness, peace, and a prosperous future. Saya : Saya is the scabbard for the Japanese sword. This saya is fi