Lot 67A
East Asia, Japan, Edo Period, Kanei era, 1624 to 1644 CE. This wakizashi mumei sword in Koshirae, guaranteed by NBTHK with the Hozon Token, is attributed to the Mino school and ranked Jyo saku (highly superior). The unsigned (mumei) blade features a polished steel surface, subtle curve (sori), long tip (kissaki), and excellent craftsmanship with a contrast between the Jigane (steel texture) and temper line, typical of the Mino school. The koshirae includes copper and gilt-brass menuki in the form of gourds, a stingray skin grip wrapped in cord, and an octagonal iron tsuba (guard). The gilt brass fuchigashira (collar) and brass kashira (pommel cap) feature an engraved carp jumping a waterfall. The black lacquered saya (scabbard) has a brass kojiri (end cap). Examined by the NBTHK in 2017, this sword includes Hozon evaluation papers, an oshigata scroll, and an appraisal from AOI Art. Size in saya sheath: 33" L (83.8 cm); blade: 20.9" L x 1" W (53.1 cm x 2.5 cm); gold gilt quality: 10% to 28%
Mino-den refers to the school or tradition of swordsmiths from the Mino province in Japan, which is located in the modern-day Gifu Prefecture. The term "den" means "lineage" or "style," so "Mino-den" specifically refers to swords made in the Mino style or by swordsmiths from that region. The Mino school became prominent during the Kamakura period (1185-1333), but its peak influence was during the Muromachi (1336-1573) and Edo (1603-1868) periods. Mino-den swords are known for their high quality and distinctive characteristics, particularly in the forging of the hamon (temper line) and the jigane (steel grain). The Mino schl's style was influenced by earlier swordsmiths from the Bizen and Soshu traditions, and later swordsmiths, such as Kanemoto and Jumyo, became famous for their work in the Mino style. Their swords often feature strong and active gunome (stepped temper lines) and togari (pointed temper lines) in the hamon, with a contrasting itame hada (wood-grain-like texture) in the steel. These swords are highly prized for their durability and sharpness in combat.
Provenance: private Kihei, Hawaii, USA collection, purchased from AOI Art, Tokyo, Japan, March 4, 2017
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#189516
- Condition: Blade is polished and excellent. Some minor abrasions to copper habaki. Minor fraying to wrapped cord on handle. Patina and a few areas of green oxidation to metal fittings. Saya sheath is cracked along the edge and black electrical tape is wrapped around the saya for reinforcement as shown. Encrusted material on the end cap. NBTHK Hozon evaluation papers and oshigata scroll are in great condition and included.
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