{"title":"Tachi \/ Katana","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"tokishima-kazumune","title":"Katana : Tokishima Kazumune","description":"\u003ch1 class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ciframe width=\"560\" height=\"315\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/rAOk9EgZAm4?si=02WIKKrfTcPf9Akz\" title=\"YouTube video player\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTokishima Kazumune Katana\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDated June 2010\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis katana was forged by Tokishima Kazumune and bears a date inscription reading an auspicious day in June 2010.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlthough a modern sword, it possesses a commanding presence rarely encountered among contemporary blades.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith a blade length of 73.8 cm (approximately 2 Shaku 4 Sun 3 Bu), a motohaba of 34.5 mm, and a blade weight of 990 grams excluding mountings, the sword displays a powerful and substantial form while maintaining elegant proportions throughout its length.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe overall sugata is wide and robust, yet remains balanced and refined rather than excessively heavy.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe hamon is a brilliant chōji-based pattern executed with confidence and consistency from the machi to the tip.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOne of the most impressive qualities of this blade is the continuity of the temper line.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMany swords show variations or loss of intensity toward the monouchi, but this example maintains its character throughout the entire length of the blade.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe yakiba remains lively and well controlled, creating a strong visual rhythm while preserving clarity and order.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe kissaki is well shaped and the boshi continues naturally from the hamon without appearing forced or exaggerated.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2449\" data-start=\"2446\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKoshirae\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is mounted in a practical yet tasteful koshirae.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eParticularly notable is the tsuba, an older iron example believed to date from the late Edo period.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIts quiet patina contrasts beautifully with the modern blade and creates an appealing dialogue between different periods of Japanese sword craftsmanship.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe remaining fittings are modern and functional, complementing the sword without distracting from it.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe saya is exceptionally smooth in operation, allowing the blade to be drawn and sheathed with ease and precision.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-end=\"2449\" data-start=\"2446\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eImpression\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis is a modern katana that succeeds in combining strength with elegance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIts wide proportions and substantial weight suggest a sword made with practical performance in mind, while the bright and uninterrupted chōji hamon demonstrates the skill and discipline of the smith.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhile fully suitable for martial arts practice and tameshigiri when legally permitted and properly handled, the sword should first be appreciated as a work of traditional craftsmanship.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRather than imitating a particular historical masterpiece, the sword stands confidently as a modern work in its own right.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFor collectors, martial artists, and enthusiasts of contemporary swordsmithing alike, this blade offers a rewarding combination of presence, functionality, and artistic quality.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Provenance Selection","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46989222510748,"sku":null,"price":1100000.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0731\/7979\/1516\/files\/IMG_5784.jpg?v=1780202241"},{"product_id":"shimadajyu-minamotonogisuke","title":"Katana : Shimada-jū Minamoto Gisuke","description":"\u003ch1\u003e\u003cspan\u003eShimada-jū Minamoto Gisuke\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003eSosyu Traditional \/ Shimada school\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEarly Edo Period (Kanbun Era, 1661–1673) (Shintō)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHistorical Context\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe seventeenth century was a period of transformation in the history of the Japanese sword. By the time of the Kanbun era (1661–1673), the prolonged warfare of the Sengoku period had given way to the stability of the Tokugawa shogunate. Although swords remained an essential part of samurai identity, their role increasingly extended beyond the battlefield.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis changing environment produced a distinct style of sword known today as Kanbun-shintō. Compared to many earlier blades, these swords often display restrained curvature, balanced proportions, and a practical elegance suited to the tastes of the early Edo period. Rather than reflecting the demands of constant warfare, they embody a society that valued both martial tradition and refined craftsmanship.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe present blade stands firmly within this historical context, preserving the characteristics that made Kanbun-period swords distinctive.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Smith and School\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Shimada School emerged during the late Muromachi period and remained active through the transition into the Edo era. The tradition is associated with the town of Shimada and continued to develop through multiple generations of swordsmiths.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis blade bears the signature \"Shimada-jū Minamoto Gisuke.\" The name Gisuke appears across several generations within the Shimada tradition, reflecting the continuity of the school over an extended period. While precise generational attribution remains a subject of study, the blade's workmanship and overall form are consistent with the early Edo-period environment in which later members of the lineage worked.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Shimada tradition is often appreciated for workmanship that reveals itself gradually. Rather than relying on bold visual effects, many examples reward close examination of the steel surface, forging structure, and the subtle qualities of the hardened edge.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFeatures of This Blade\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith a cutting length of 66.4 cm and a curvature of 0.9 cm, this blade presents a classic Kanbun-shintō silhouette. The shallow sori, moderate chū-kissaki, and well-balanced proportions create an appearance that is both disciplined and refined.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eParticularly noteworthy is the jihada. Flowing itame is clearly visible across the surface, allowing the forging structure to be appreciated in detail. Activity within the steel emerges under changing light, giving the blade a depth that encourages extended study.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe hamon is accompanied by a deep and gentle nioiguchi. Rather than seeking attention through dramatic shapes, the hardened edge displays a quiet richness that becomes increasingly apparent during careful examination. This restrained quality contributes significantly to the blade's overall character.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe boshi continues naturally into the point and maintains harmony with the rest of the blade.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe tang bears the signature \"Shimada-jū Minamoto Gisuke.\" Although the blade has undergone shortening during its long history, the signature remains intact, preserving a direct connection to the smith recorded on the tang.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade is accompanied by an NBTHK Tokubetsu Kichō certificate, issued in 1975, attributing the work to Shimada-jū Minamoto Gisuke and recognizing it as a Shintō blade.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA Blade That Carries History\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLike many Japanese swords that survived into the modern era, this blade bears evidence of adaptation across generations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAt some point in its history, the blade was shortened. Such modifications were common and often reflected changing methods of wear, mounting styles, or practical requirements. What is particularly notable here is that the blade continues to preserve its signature despite these alterations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe surviving tang, together with the two mekugi-ana, records part of the sword's long journey through time. The present form is therefore not simply the result of its original manufacture, but also of the decisions made by successive owners who chose to preserve and maintain it.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe accompanying NBTHK Tokubetsu Kichō certificate further contributes to this documentary history, linking the blade's modern preservation to the broader effort to study and protect Japanese swords during the twentieth century.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAppreciation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis blade offers a compelling example of the aesthetic character associated with Kanbun-period Shintō workmanship.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIts appeal begins with its well-balanced sugata, a form that reflects the changing preferences of the early Edo period. Closer examination reveals further rewards in the visible itame jihada, the activity within the steel, and the deep, gentle nioiguchi that gives the blade its quiet presence.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSupported by an NBTHK Tokubetsu Kichō certificate and retaining its signature despite later shortening, the blade provides both historical interest and opportunities for continued study. It is a work that invites appreciation not through extravagance, but through refinement and subtle craftsmanship.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e","brand":"Provenance Selection","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47029301575836,"sku":null,"price":700000.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0731\/7979\/1516\/files\/IMG_5960.jpg?v=1780661664"},{"product_id":"mumei-yamato-tradition-possibly-senjuin-school","title":"Katana : Mumei - Yamato Tradition (Possibly Senjuin School)","description":"\u003ch1\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMumei Katana\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYamato Tradition (Senjuin-related Work, in the Opinion of the Polisher)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLate Kamakura Period (Attributed)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHistorical Context\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe late Kamakura period was one of the defining eras in the development of the Japanese sword. The warrior class had become the dominant political force, and military conflict remained a constant reality across much of the country. At the same time, the great religious institutions of Nara continued to exercise considerable influence, maintaining not only spiritual authority but also military power through their networks of retainers and warrior monks.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWithin this environment, the Yamato tradition developed a distinct identity. Unlike schools that later became known for flamboyant temper patterns or elaborate decoration, Yamato smiths emphasized durability, disciplined forging, and practical performance. Their work was created for men who expected to carry swords rather than simply admire them.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eYet centuries later, it is the beauty of the steel itself that continues to command attention.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Smith and School\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis blade is unsigned and cannot be attributed with certainty to a specific smith.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIts workmanship, however, displays many of the characteristics traditionally associated with the Yamato tradition. The powerful masame-hada, restrained suguha-based hamon, and overall austerity of the blade reflect a style that values structure and refinement over immediate visual impact.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAmong the various Yamato lineages, the blade bears particular similarities to works associated with the Senjuin school. This observation is based on workmanship rather than documentation and should be regarded as an informed opinion rather than a formal attribution. Nevertheless, the combination of steel texture, hamon, and overall character recalls qualities long appreciated in Senjuin-related works.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMany surviving Yamato swords are mumei. Centuries of shortening removed countless signatures, but in the Yamato tradition appreciation has often rested upon the study of shape, forging structure, and workmanship rather than inscriptions alone. This blade exemplifies that approach particularly well.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFeatures of This Blade\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWith a cutting length of 66.6 cm, a curvature of 1.0 cm, and a weight of 764 g, the blade retains a substantial and healthy presence despite its considerable age.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe most striking feature is the steel itself.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA powerful and highly visible masame-hada flows throughout the blade, creating an appearance that immediately draws the eye. The grain is neither uniform nor static. Instead, it reveals layers of activity and variation that become increasingly apparent as the blade is examined under changing light.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEqually noteworthy is the presence of active midare-utsuri. Although difficult to fully capture in photographs, the utsuri is readily visible in hand and contributes greatly to the depth and complexity of the blade's appearance. Together, the masame-hada and utsuri create a surface that rewards prolonged study.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe hamon is a restrained ko-midare based on suguha. Rather than competing with the jihada, it works in harmony with it, allowing the activity within the steel to remain the primary focus of appreciation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe boshi follows this same disciplined character, contributing to the overall balance of the work.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe polish is best described as Fair. Surface scratches are present, and certain areas show irregularities in shaping. Nevertheless, the blade remains healthy, and its most important characteristics remain clearly visible. The quality of the steel can still be appreciated without difficulty.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA Blade That Carries History\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePerhaps the most compelling aspect of this sword is the way its history remains visible in its present form.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe blade has undergone both shortening and machi-okuri during its long life. Such modifications were common as older swords were adapted to changing fashions, mountings, and practical requirements. Yet despite these alterations, the blade continues to preserve a distinct sense of koshi-zori.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe curvature remains evident even within the tang itself, quietly suggesting the shape the sword once possessed before later adjustments were made. This surviving geometry gives the blade an unmistakably old character that cannot easily be recreated.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe absence of a signature, the shortened tang, and the traces of continued maintenance should not be viewed simply as losses. Rather, they form part of the blade's historical record. Each alteration reflects a decision by a previous owner to preserve and continue using the sword rather than allow it to disappear.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore than seven centuries after its creation, the blade still carries those traces of survival.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAppreciation\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis is a sword that reveals its character gradually.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIts appeal does not depend upon a famous signature or dramatic visual effects. Instead, it rewards careful observation through qualities that experienced collectors often value most: a powerful masame-hada, active midare-utsuri, a restrained suguha-based hamon, and a shape that continues to preserve the memory of an earlier age.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhether ultimately regarded as Senjuin-related or more broadly representative of the Yamato tradition, the blade offers an opportunity to study the qualities that made medieval Japanese swords so enduring.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore than its attribution, it is the steel itself that commands attention. The interplay of masame-hada and utsuri, together with the surviving koshi-zori preserved through centuries of alteration, offers a compelling glimpse into the character of a Yamato blade forged in the late Kamakura period.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA sword worthy of continued study and appreciation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003chr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e","brand":"Provenance Selection","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47029359739036,"sku":null,"price":1200000.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0731\/7979\/1516\/files\/IMG_5905.jpg?v=1780662938"}],"url":"https:\/\/provenanceselection.com\/ja\/collections\/tachi-katana.oembed","provider":"Provenance Selection","version":"1.0","type":"link"}