Antique Japanese Katana Sword by Kashu Katsuie (Hozon)

Sword Specifications

• Maker: Kashū Katsuie
• Period: Late Muromachi
• Certificate : NBTHK Hozon
• Blade Length: 68.8 cm
• Curvature: 1.6 cm
• Width at Base: 3.01 cm
• Width at Tip: 2.07 cm
• Thickness at Base: 0.60 cm
• Thickness at Tip: 0.38 cm
• Blade Weight: 703 g
• Total Length with Mountings: 99.8 cm
• Total Weight with Mountings: 1,075 g

The blade features Ko-mokume hada, a fine wood grain steel pattern that is evenly distributed across the surface. The steel also exhibits Utsuri, a shadowy reflection effect, which enhances the visual depth of the blade.

The hamon displays a Yubashiri effect, with scattered patches of hardened steel appearing along the edge. Additionally, Tobi-yaki can be observed, where isolated areas of hardening create irregular temper patterns. The overall steel structure and edge are described as Jiba Saeru, meaning both the grain and tempered edge are highly refined, sharp, and clear.

About Swordsmith - Kashū Katsuie

This blade is attributed to Kashū Katsuie, a swordsmith from Kashū (modern-day Kaga Province, present-day Ishikawa Prefecture). The name "Katsuie" was carried by multiple generations of swordsmiths from the mid-Muromachi period to the early Edo period (1450s–1650s). The earliest known Katsuie was originally from Mino Province, a region famous for the Mino-den sword-forging tradition. During the mid-15th century, he and his apprentices relocated to Kaga Koku, where they established the Darani school under the patronage of Buddhist monks.

From the second generation onward, Katsuie swordsmiths served the Maeda clan, a prestigious feudal family, producing swords for their samurai retainers. This katana was likely forged during the Sengoku Jidai (Warring States Period, 15th–16th century), a time of intense conflict when quality weapons were crucial for survival. Owning a piece from this era is a rare opportunity to hold a sword that may have witnessed some of Japan’s most turbulent battles.