Description:

East Asia, Japan, Muromachi Period, early 16th century. This katana features a hand-forged steel blade and a lacquered wood saya (scabbard). The nakago (tang) bears a partially visible signature (mei), potentially linking it to a swordsmith of Uda Kunimitsu lineage active in the early 1500s. Several swordsmiths used the Kunimitsu name during this era, though documented references for comparison are scarce, making precise attribution challenging. The blade is paired with a traditional saya crafted from lacquered (urushi) wood, designed both to protect the blade and enhance the katana's aesthetic appeal. The Muromachi period, a time of significant civil conflict in Japan, spurred the development of advanced sword-making techniques. This katana exemplifies the artistry and functionality that were highly esteemed in samurai culture. Size in sheath: 31" L x 1.5" W (78.7 cm x 3.8 cm); blade only: 25" L x 1.125" W (63.5 cm x 2.9 cm)

According to the Metropolitan Museum of Art's entry for a tanto by Uda Kunimitsu, accession number 1998.127.2: "There were three generations of Kunimitsu swordsmiths who were active from the early fourteenth to the mid-fifteenth century, spanning the late Kamakura period to the mid-Muromachi period. Uda Kunimitsu was the first-generation swordsmith of the family and founder of the Uda School."

Provenance: private Kihei, Hawaii, USA collection

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#189509

    Condition:
  • Blade is very sharp, handle with care. Nicks and abrasions to blade. Missing handle as shown. Losses and chips to the opening and end of saya sheath. Lacquer is chipped. Tang is signed.

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November 15, 2024 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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