Description:
Japan, Edo period (1603 - 1868), late 16th century (blade); Edo period (1603 – 1868) (koshirae)
Blade
Shinogi-tsukuri with iori mune, probably suguha hamon. Nakago with one mekugi-ana, sujikai yasurime and ha-agari kuri jiri. Signed Bishu Osafune YUKIMITSU 幸 光 , Bishu Osafune referring to the place and province as well as Bizen Osafune, one of the top sword making schools in Japan during the 14th and 15th centuries.
Koshirae
Round, iron tsuba with two hitsu-ana, carved in relief with crashing sea waves, dense clouds and the claws, tail and head of a dragon. Shakudo fuchi-kashira with fine nanakoji in takazogan with gold, showing a resting warrior in armor – judging from his facial expression, it could be benkei – and a floral composition with blossoms. Beautiful saya with very dense inlaid mosaic of mother-of-pearl shimmering in different colors.
Dimensions: 44.9 cm (nagasa), 80 cm (total length)
Condition: The blade extensively worn. The koshirae in good condition with a larger crack through the saya.
Provenance: Austrian private collection