A Good Antique Japanese Wakizashi Sword

#077

PLEASE NOTE:  I know a bit more than most but I am NOT an expert regarding Japanese blades.  The study of the subject is very sophisticated and the collector community will always have their own opinions regarding age, maker, form, and authenticity.  Blades that are signed are fantastic BUT signatures were copied during the period and all must be scrutinized and authenticated.  I find that judging the overall sword is first and second is the assessment of the signature or other markings.  The higher quality blades (generally) will be maker signed and dated by the blacksmith who made them but not all.

A Good Antique Japanese Wakizashi sword, circa. most likely 17th - early 18th century, early EDO Period (1603-1867), (just my opinion).  19.5" blade (with the tang), 14.25" (cutting edge forward of the "Habaki").  The tang of the blade is not signed and has a single hole "Mekugi-Ana".  The temper line "Hamon" is fantastic and the blade overall is in excellent polish with minimal scratches and dings from use.  Copper or Bronze guard "Tsuba" with high-relief decoration and open work.  It is difficult to know exactly how old the wood handle "Ho" is but appears to be a possible later replacement and has decorative copper "Menuki".  Period black lacquered wood scabbard "Saya" is most likely the original with silver insert to the hanging cord "Sageo" mount.  The Wakizashi has a side knife "Kozuka" with unsigned blade.  The Kozuka's grip is of blackened copper with gold overlay decoration depicting a flying bat.  A very nice Wakizashi !

HADA (visible metal grain) - excellent+ with no areas of concern to point out.

HAMON (visible temper line on the cutting edge) - very wavy (gunome) and excellent+.

POLISH - excellent+.

PERIOD "Nengo" - circa. most likely early EDO Period (1603-1867), (just my opinion).

TANG MARKINGS - unsigned.

NOTE: Beautiful blade !

TTI-575422