Description
ITEM DESCRIPTION:
Comes with kimono or cotton bag. Comes with certificate of supein Nihonto. Comes with original prefecture certificate. Comes with NBTHK Hozon token.
Type: Katana
Mounting: Shirasaya
Overall blade length (nagasa): 68.1 cm
Curvature (sori): 1.5 cm
Signature (mei): Mumei (unsigned)
Attribution: Chikushi school
Hamon: Ko-suguha
Hada: Itame
Boshi: Rounded
Period: Muromachi
Paper: NBTHK Hozon Token
Torokusho: Wakayama registration no. 29135
This exquisite katana, housed in an elegant shirasaya (plain wood mount), exemplifies the purest essence of Japanese sword preservation and aesthetic philosophy. The shirasaya serves not only as a vessel for storage but also as a means to protect the blade from moisture and corrosion. Its minimalist design — free from ornamental distractions — honors the blade as the true soul of the sword, showcasing the refined beauty of its craftsmanship while preserving its integrity through the centuries. Far from being secondary to koshirae, shirasaya reflects an ideal of purity and reverence, particularly appreciated by collectors and connoisseurs who understand the importance of careful preservation and understated elegance.
The blade itself reveals a clear ko-suguha hamon — a delicate, straight temperline of small, consistent undulations — representing a hallmark of technical control and artistic restraint. The hada (grain) displays a flowing itame pattern, adding depth and movement to the surface under light. The boshi (tip temper) appears neatly rounded, aligning with the dignified harmony of the rest of the sword. The overall curvature and proportions follow the aesthetics typically seen in blades of the late Koto periods.
Attributed by the NBTHK to the Chikushi school, this sword finds its roots in one of the lesser-known but historically rich schools of Kyushu. The Chikushi group thrived primarily during the Muromachi period, with influences from both Yamato and Yamashiro traditions. Their works are known for their practical design suited for battlefield use, yet often feature refined details that reflect high skill and regional identity. Its craftsmanship and stylistic features align well with Chikushi techniques — from the quiet elegance of the hamon to the refined forging style.
The blade has been granted Hozon Token certification by the NBTHK, confirming its authenticity and historical value. This sword, with its quiet dignity and masterful construction, is a remarkable example of the understated power and grace that defines Japanese swordsmithing at its finest.
Includes the original Japanese registration certificate, confirming authenticity and increasing its value as a collectible and historical artifact.
Blade is in good condition due to aging just superficial scratchings as normal. Not hagire and not fatal damage, of course. This is a japanese weapon so have a real historical value. This is a weapon with centuries, not machine crafted so can be minor movements of saya, tsuka, tsuba, etc. Because of dilatation, humidity, etc. and little damages propers of his age like small rust, scratches, etc.