31. Katana Sword, signed by Masahiro, third generation (Hizen Country Bitchu Daijo Fujiwara Masanaga), from Hizen school, early Edo period (Teikyo), cca. 1684, accompanied by NBTHK certificate and Oshigata

Bichu Daijo Fujiwara Masanaga was the third generation of Masahiro. He was a consummate blacksmith, and over time, he rose to the rank of jo-saku, wazamono. As most of his work was in apprenticeship to his father, there are very few swords bearing his signature and even fewer with the full signature, as in this case. This blade is suriage machi-okuri, namely shortened but keeping the entire signature intact. The blade was shortened by only about 2 cm, so it retains its perfect balance and shape. Gentle sori (curve), combined with longer kissaki illustrate why Hizen swords were reputed to have a perfect shape. Exceptional for this blade is the nie-deki gunome-midare type hamon, which looks like summer clouds and has a fascinating effect. The nakago has three holes for mekugi, a sign that the blade has been passed down from generation to generation and has changed different koshirae. The sword is dressed in a classic saya with black roiro lacquer and is adorned with an elaborate knotted sageo. The tsuba is round, unsigned, made of black iron and is the work of the Kinai school in Echizen. It is decorated with peony leaves, buds and flowers, worked in openwork. The shakudo fuchi is engraved with birds flying above the waves and is signed by Katsutoshi. The tsuka is covered with white stingray skin, wrapped with black silk tsuka-ito. Two gilded black iron menukis, in the shape of flowers, adorn the tsuka. The blade is accompanied by Oshigata and a Tokubetsu Kicho certificate issued by the Nihon Bijutsu Token Hozon Kyokai (NBTKH) - The Society for the Conservation of Japanese Art Swords, together with silk sheaths.

Dimensions

custom l=96 cm

Description

tamahagane steel, ray skin, brass, lacquered wood

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

For clarifications regarding the bidding procedure, hammer price costs, guarantee, payment, and collection terms for the winning lot, we recommend carefully reading/re-reading the Bidding Regulations.

For additional information regarding the lot and the auction, please contact the Art Consultants Department.