Antique Japanese Sword Katana Notare Midare Hamon, Inro Saya

This exquisite katana, with a blade length of 69.8 cm, exemplifies the pinnacle of traditional Japanese sword-making, combining both aesthetic beauty and exceptional functionality. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this sword is a remarkable piece that resonates with history and artistry.

Sword Details:

• Period : Edo
• Blade Length : 69.8 cm
• Curvature : 2.2cm
• Blade Width at Base : 3.0 cm
• Blade Width at Tip : 2.0 cm
• Blade Thickness at Base : 0.8 cm
• Blade Thickness at Tip : 0.5 cm
• Blade Weight : 750 g
• Total Length with Mountings  99 cm
• Weight without Scabbard : 1060 g

Sword Structure :

The blade features a deep curvature of 2.2cm, offering a refined and balanced appearance that is both elegant and functional. Forged in the shinogi-zukuri style, the blade’s traditional shape is characterized by a prominent ridge line that enhances its strength and cutting ability. The iori-mune, or roof-shaped back, provides structural integrity while adding to the blade’s aesthetic appeal.

Tip Details :

This katana is equipped with a medium-sized tip, which strikes a perfect balance between appearance and utility. The hamon, or temper line, displays a notare-midare pattern, with a clear and bright appearance. The blade is further enhanced by the presence of small, sparkling nie crystals, which highlight the craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Steel Quality :

The steel surface showcases a harmonious combination of small itame-hada (small plank-like grain) with mokume-hada (wood grain pattern), creating a visually stunning and intricate design. The presence of yubashiri, streaks or bands of a different steel color running along the blade, adds depth and complexity, making the sword a true work of art.

Mountings :

The sword’s mountings are crafted with the same dedication to quality and tradition. The fuchi-kashira, or pommel and collar, are made of durable copper with a lacquer finish, adding both resilience and a traditional aesthetic. The menuki, or handle ornaments, are made of shakudo (a copper and gold alloy), featuring a motif of cows, symbolizing strength and perseverance. The tsuba, or handguard, is an iron, round-shaped piece adorned with openwork chrysanthemum leaves, providing elegance and a secure grip.

Scabbard :

The scabbard is finished with high-quality black lacquer, offering a sleek and polished appearance. It features a traditional sanbun-kizami inro shape, which is not only visually appealing but also functional, ensuring the blade is safely housed while maintaining its aesthetic integrity.