The twentieth century nearly killed the craft twice: wartime distortion, then the occupation ban. The NBTHK’s founding in 1948 and licensed forging from 1953 rebuilt the sword as an art, crowned by Living National Treasures and the mukansa rank.
This listing features a katana by Kasama Ikkan-sai Shigetsugu, dated to a lucky day in August of Showa 12 (1937). Shigetsugu, born in 1886, was a highly regarded smith known for his unique carving style and excellent sword-making skills. He also served as an instructor at the Nihonto Tanren Denshujo during the war, forging swords for military and political figures.
NihontoWatchmei · Showa
Tokyo · around 1912-1926
Tōken Taikan top 63%
7 pieces on the market now
Shōwa to the present: destruction and revival
The twentieth century nearly killed the craft twice: wartime distortion, then the occupation ban. The NBTHK’s founding in 1948 and licensed forging from 1953 rebuilt the sword as an art, crowned by Living National Treasures and the mukansa rank.
We could not find an authenticity certificate on the seller’s listing. Japanese swords and fittings are normally papered by the NBTHK (or the NTHK). Without one, the attribution is the seller’s own assessment and has not been independently verified — treat it with caution and ask the dealer about certification before buying.
If, due to our fault, the item differs significantly from its proper condition, the item may be returned. Cooling-off is within one week of the item's arrival.
