Description:
A WAKIZASHI IN A SPLENDID KOSHIRAE
Japan, c. 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868)
The blade:
iori mune and shinogi-zukuri, the hamon is suguha bis Notare and with nie, the hada is masame. The tang with two mekugi-ana, the significant characters of the mei (signature) are illegible due to corrosion, the tang tip is kirijiri.
The mounting:
Iron mokkogata tsuba with ishime structure, the inlaid decorations showing young, semi-sculptural bears, symbols of male strength. No hitsu. Saya and tsuka are made entirely of gilt copper, with engraved as well as high inlaid decorations. Compositions with mostly gilt blossoms and foliage with a few birds in between, probably suzume (sparrows). The ring is mounted on a protective demon mask. With a brocade cover.
NAGASA 46.6 cm
total LENGTH in koshirae 76.4 cm
Provenance: Hungarian private collection.
Condition: The blade in good condition with minor blemishes to the surface. The koshirae in good, slightly worn condition.