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 tanto is signed by Kanefusa Sadabo, the 25th generation of the Mino Kanefusa family, who later assumed the name Kanefusa. It was forged in Showa 58 (1983) as an omamori-gatana (talisman sword) for the Shimizu family. The exquisite carvings, including the phrase 'Asahi ni niou' and cherry blossoms, were done by his master, Gassan Sadakazu, a Living National Treasure.
NihontoWatchmei · Showa (1926-1989) · nagasa 49.8cm · sori 1cm
Mino · around 1926-1989
1 piece 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.
