Description
ITEM DESCRIPTION:
Comes with kimono or cotton bag. Comes with certificate of supein Nihonto. Comes with prefecture certificate.
Blade
This mumei wakizashi (unsigned short sword) from the Edo period has a nagasa of 44.4 cm and a curvature (sori) of 1.0 cm.
The steel grain (hada) displays a well-forged itame mixed with masame, with fine nie activity and a carefully polished surface. The hamon is a distinct notare-midare (undulating) pattern, beautifully visible and consistent, with a smooth transition between the hardened edge (ha) and the body (ji).
The nakago is ubu (unaltered) with one mekugi-ana and a deep, even patina consistent with Edo-period blades. The silver habaki enhances the elegant simplicity of the overall presentation.
Mounting (Koshirae)
The sword is mounted in a complete koshirae, featuring a black lacquered saya and a tsuka wrapped in black silk over white samegawa (ray skin).
The fuchi and kashira are decorated with gold floral motifs in relief, probably crafted in shakudō with iroe (colored metal inlay). The menuki repeat the floral theme, adding symmetry and balance to the design.
The tsuba, forged in iron and shaped in mokko-gata, is finely carved with vegetal motifs and gold inscriptions, suggesting mid-Edo craftsmanship of high aesthetic value. The overall composition combines elegance, restraint, and a naturalistic refinement typical of Edo-period samurai taste.
Shirasaya
The blade also includes a shirasaya (plain wooden storage scabbard) perfectly fitted for preservation purposes.
Having both shirasaya and koshirae is highly desirable, offering versatility for both safe storage and formal display.
Technical Sheet
Element Description
Type Wakizashi
Period Edo
Signature Mumei (unsigned)
Blade length 44.4 cm
Curvature 1.0 cm
Mounting Complete (koshirae + shirasaya)
Hamon Notare-midare
Hada Itame mixed with masame
Tsuba Iron mokko-gata with vegetal engraving
Fuchi/Kashira Shakudō with floral motifs in gold
Saya Black lacquered
Tsuka Black silk over white samegawa
Menuki Gold floral design
Habaki Silver
Registration Hyōgo No. 100646
Condition Excellent preservation
