A Good Large Antique Japanese Wakizashi Sword

#078

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 Large Antique Japanese Wakizashi sword, circa. most likely 17th - early 18th century, early EDO Period (1603-1867), (just my opinion).  31" blade (with the tang), 21.25" (cutting edge forward of the "Habaki").  The tang of the blade is 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.  The iron guard "Tsuba" with remnants of decorative gold, silver, and copper inlay around the periphery with an interior basket-weave pattern.  Period pommel-cap "Kashira", collar "Fuchi", and grip accent "Menuki" all with decorative high-relief and accented with gold overlay.  It is difficult to know exactly how old the wood handle "Ho" is but appears to be of the period.  Period dark brown lacquered wood scabbard "Saya" is most likely the original.   A fantastic large Wakizashi !

HADA (visible metal grain) - excellent+ with a few minor stains and areas of light scratches.

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

POLISH - excellent+.

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

TANG MARKINGS - signed and needs to be translated.

NOTE: Beautiful blade !

TTI-575522