{"product_id":"antique-japanese-sword-katana-from-taira-takada-hozon","title":"Antique Japanese Sword Katana from Taira Takada (Hozon)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis elegant katana was forged by the \u003cstrong\u003eTaira Takada\u003c\/strong\u003e school during the \u003cstrong\u003eMuromachi period\u003c\/strong\u003e (1336–1573), a time when samurai warfare was at its peak, and the demand for durable, reliable swords was paramount. Taira Takada swordsmiths were known for producing functional yet beautiful blades, primarily for the warriors of Kyushu.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSpecifications:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBlade Length (刃長):\u003c\/strong\u003e 67.7 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSori (反り - Curvature):\u003c\/strong\u003e 1.6 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHamon\u003c\/strong\u003e : Gunome Midare\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePeriod:\u003c\/strong\u003e Muromachi (1336–1573)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCertificate:\u003c\/strong\u003e Hozon (preservation) by the NBTHK (Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eBlade Details:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe blade showcases a beautifully crafted hamon in \u003cstrong\u003eGunome Midare \u003c\/strong\u003ethat is typical of the Muromachi period style. The \u003cstrong\u003esori\u003c\/strong\u003e (curvature) of 1.6 cm provides a slight curve, perfect for drawing and cutting. The Taira Takada smiths were known for creating sturdy, practical blades, and this katana reflects the spirit of a time when functionality was key in battle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eKoshirae (Mountings):\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe katana is mounted with a \u003cstrong\u003eblack-lacquered saya (scabbard)\u003c\/strong\u003e and a well-preserved handle featuring \u003cstrong\u003etraditional ray skin\u003c\/strong\u003e and a \u003cstrong\u003eblack cord wrap\u003c\/strong\u003e. The intricate \u003cstrong\u003efittings\u003c\/strong\u003e are a reflection of the fine craftsmanship that enhances the overall aesthetic while maintaining the katana’s primary function as a weapon. The habaki is made of silver.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistorical Context:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Takada school, founded by Takada Tomoyuki during the Nanbokucho period (1334-1338 A.D.), was renowned for its exceptional sword-making techniques. Tomoyuki trained in the Bizen province to master the craft before returning to Takada village to establish the school. This tradition of excellence continued through generations, and during the Edo period, those who forged swords in Takada were referred to as Taira Takada or Fujiwara Takada.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring the Sengoku period (15th to late 16th century), the Takada school produced numerous swords for samurai in Kyushu. These blades were highly regarded, often compared to the famous Mino and Bizen swords. The Bungo domain, under the rule of Otomo Yoshishige (also known as Sorin), saw significant military and political strength, with the Takada school forging swords for warriors serving the Otomo clan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKyushu’s strategic trading position with Asian countries fostered a prosperous environment for sword-making. The Takada school’s reputation for high-quality swords ensured a steady demand from feudal lords engaged in regional conflicts.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Tokyo Nihonto","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43199491899475,"sku":"671466e49c562","price":3500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0651\/8092\/6035\/files\/P1055525-Avecaccentuation-NR.jpg?v=1762246452","url":"https:\/\/hundredswords.store\/products\/antique-japanese-sword-katana-from-taira-takada-hozon","provider":"hundredswords","version":"1.0","type":"link"}