Antique Japanese Katana Sword by Sue Bizen (Hozon)

Sword Specifications

• Maker: Sue-Bizen School 
• Period: Late Muromachi (15th–16th Century)
• Certificate: NBTHK Hozon
• Blade Length: 61.8 cm
• Curvature: 1.3 cm
• Width at Base: 3.02 cm
• Width at Tip: 2.46 cm
• Thickness at Base: 0.76 cm
• Thickness at Tip: 0.60 cm
• Blade Weight: 736 g

This outstanding Sue-Bizen katana originates from the late Muromachi period (15th–16th century) and has been officially certified as a Hozon Token by the NBTHK. The blade is an Ōsuriage Mumei sword, meaning it has been shortened from its original length, a common practice for battle-ready swords.

The Sue-Bizen school, active in the famous sword-making region of Osafune, Bizen, produced some of the finest cutting swords in Japan. This tradition includes renowned swordsmiths such as Yoshisada, Katsumitsu, Kiyomitsu, Tadamitsu, and Harumitsu. These blades were highly sought after during the turbulent Sengoku Jidai (Warring States Period), known for their strength and cutting performance.

The katana features a classic Bizen hada (steel grain structure), blending tight itame (straight wood grain), mokume (burl pattern), and nagare (flowing grain). The presence of a clear utsuri, —a shadowy reflection effect—adds further depth to the blade’s appearance.

The hamon  is an exquisite gunome-chōji midare, blending wave-like and clove-shaped patterns. The tempering is deeply nioi-based with sunagashi (sand streaks) and nie-suji (hardened steel lines), showcasing the masterful heat treatment of the blade.

Mountings & Special Features

• Habaki: Unique two-tone habaki featuring gold-plated upper and silver-plated lower.
• Shirasaya: Newly crafted, high-quality plain wooden storage scabbard.
• Condition: Expertly polished by a professional artisan to enhance the steelwork and blade aesthetics.

About Sue-Bizen Swords

The Sue-Bizen school, active in the late 15th to 16th centuries, was one of the most influential sword-making traditions in Japan. Known as the “Sword Kingdom of Japan”, Bizen produced an unparalleled number of blades that were used in battle.

This katana is a highly refined example of late-period Bizen craftsmanship, featuring a powerful, broad structure and an exceptionally beautiful hamon. Recently released from a private collection, it stands as a remarkable historical and functional piece.