Lot 90
East Asia, Japan, Edo, ca. 1688 but possibly later CE. This steel wakizashi is purportedly signed by a student of the Hizen no Kuni Hirotsugu school, see extended description for historical context. The blade features an Itame hada (wood-grain forging pattern) with chikei in the jitetsu (surface steel texture) and displays noare nie-deki sunagashi (refined martensite streaks). It is further distinguished by a very fine hamon (temper line) and a well-formed komaru (rounded) boshi. Currently housed in a plain wood shirasaya (storage scabbard), the sword has been polished, with the signature inscribed on the tang. This wakizashi was evaluated by the Society for the Preservation of the Japanese Sword (NBTHK) in 2008 and is accompanied by NBTHK Hozon evaluation papers. As was customary during the Edo period, students of the Hizen school often forged blades in their master's name, upholding the traditions and reputation of the school. Size of blade: 18.125" L x 1" W (46 cm x 2.5 cm); in saya sheath: 27.75" L x 1.75" W (70.5 cm x 4.4 cm)
Hirotsugu, associated with the Tadayoshi lineage within the Hizen school, was renowned for creating blades of exceptional quality that blended functionality with aesthetic beauty. Such blades remain highly valued by collectors for their refined artistry and enduring historical significance. Hirotsugu likely worked during the mid-to-late Edo period, with his activity generally placed in the late 17th to early 18th century (1680-1730 CE). This timeframe aligns with the peak of the Hizen school, particularly under the Tadayoshi lineage, which was celebrated for its production of high-quality swords. While this sword is attributed to 1688, it may have been crafted at any point during the flourishing of the Hizen school until 1868, when the Meiji Restoration brought about significant changes in Japan. The abolition of the samurai class and restrictions on sword production, marked the decline of traditional schools like Hizen. Despite this, the craftsmanship and legacy of their swords endure, celebrated for their artistry and historical importance.
The wakizashi was both a weapon and a symbol of authority and social status. When paired with the longer katana, the wakizashi marked its wearer as a samurai, with the shorter sword serving as an auxiliary weapon for close-quarters combat. Wakizashi could also be worn independently, even by non-samurai, such as merchants (chonin), who favored them for protection against bandits when traveling between Japan's cities. Thus, the wakizashi held a unique place in both the martial and social traditions of the Edo period.
Provenance: private Kihei, Hawaii, USA collection, purchsed October 30, 2007
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)
PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
#189513
- Condition: Blade is very sharp, handle with care. Fully polished. Comes with NBTHK evaluation document.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 27.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |