Ordering number:23407
Katana in Shirasaya with Koshirae (NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token)
Signature: Hishu Yatsushiro Ju Minamoto Moriyoshi (Mukansa swordsmith)
Showa Mizunoe-Ne Nen 10 Gatsu Kichijitsu (October 1972).
肥州八代住源盛吉謹作(無監査)
We divide 4 sections for each sword as Saijyo Saku, Jyojyo Saku, Jyo Saku and Regular Saku.
This work is ranked as Jyojyo Saku for Moriyoshi.
Polished.
Habaki: Single gold-plated.
Blade length: 75.3 cm (29.65 in).
Curvature: 2.5 cm (0.98 in).
Mekugi Hole: 1.
Width at Base (Motohaba): 3.82 cm (1.50 in).
Width at the tip: 2.66 cm (1.05 in).
Thickness of rim (Kasane): 0.75 cm (0.30 in).
Sword Weight: 985 grams.
Era: Showa(October 1972)
Shape: Wide with a thick kasane, broad curvature, and carved with a bo-hi on both sides.
Jigane: Well-kneaded small itame hada with a beautiful skin appearance.
Hamon: Nie-deki with a deep nioiguchi in a gunome midare pattern, features sunagashi, kinsuji and a dynamic activity, leading to a turbulent and rounded boshi.
Features: Moriyoshi, born in 1920 in Yatsushiro, Kumamoto, as Matsuji Tanigawa, was a swordsmith who trained under Kongo Hyoei Moritaka Yasuhiro since 1934 and later learned from Nobushige Enju Taro. He was officially named “Enju Senji Minamoto Moriyoshi” by his master in 1941, and continued to gain recognition, notably making a commemorative sword in 1952 and being acknowledged for sword-making in 1954. Moriyoshi became famous for his work in the style of Kiyomaro around 1978-1979, and was recognized as an uninspected swordsmith in 1985. This piece, made during his mature period, is a masterpiece reflecting the powerful Soshu tradition. Moriyoshi passed away in 1990 at the age of 70, but his work, especially his Kiyomaro style, remains highly regarded for its flawless execution and striking features, particularly the long and exquisite kinsuji.
Koshirae: Modern.
Aoi Art’s Comment: While Moriyoshi is best known for his Kiyomaro reproductions, this sword is a prime example of his expertise in that style. It’s a substantial piece with a thick kasane and bo-hi on both sides, creating an impressive and grand tip. The jigane quality is reminiscent of the best of Kyushu Shinshinto, making it an outstanding and flawless piece. This katana, especially recommended for its Kiyomaro style polishing, is a masterpiece deserving of special recommendation.
NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token.
AoiArt estimation paper.
Whole Oshigata.
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