-, 11th Session — Designated October 25, 1963
, : Nagamori (平長盛)
Measurements 51.5 cm, 1.5+ cm, 2.79 cm, 12.1 cm, slight
Description Keijō: , , with . : mixed with ; slightly tendency, and overall somewhat (whitish tendency). : Medium mixed with and ; enter, the is tight, and adheres. : with . : Carved through (): on the , at the a “true” in relief; on the , likewise a in relief; also on both sides. : ; ; file marks; one ; below the on the there is a three-character signature.
Artisan Nagamori (平長盛)
Era period, around the Chōroku era (1457–1460)
Explanation Nagamori is a swordsmith of the Takada group of Bungo Province, and tradition holds that he was active around the Chōroku era. It is, however, regrettable that among works signed “Nagamori” one does not encounter examples bearing dates. Nevertheless, when compared with other extant works, the period attribution is broadly appropriate, and it appears that there were two or even three generations working under the name.
This is by the first generation. Within the group generally referred to as “ Takada,” Nagamori’s technical ability is outstanding. He particularly excelled in works in a -based manner; among Takada works the is especially fine, and the carvings occasionally seen are also splendid.
Although this is a , it is the finest example among works by the smith, and in every respect it constitutes a model specimen of Takada workmanship.
