Ordering number: 22600
Katana: in Shirasaya with Koshirae(NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token)
Signature: Aoi Mon Motte Nanbantetsu Oite Bushu Edo Echizen Yasutsugu(2nd Generation)
Sayagaki: written by Mr. Tanobe
Inscribed on the saya is “Made in Musashi Edo Echizen Yasutsugu, 3-leaf Aoi crest, adorned withNanban tetsu . This is the work of the 2nd Generation Yasutsugu during the Kan’ei period, showcasing a distinct pattern of wood grain. It follows the stylistic tradition passed down from the first generation. Emulating the style of the renowned Sōshū Sadamune, this is an outstanding and vibrant tantō with a large, sweeping curvature, beautifully formed nioi (crystalline structures formed during the hardening process), sunagashi (sand-like lines), and yubashiri (tempered lines resembling lightning bolts). Blade length: 74.9 centimeters.
shinto Blade: Jōsaku (superior work), Ryō Waza -mono (excellent quality), Musashi School
At our company, we classify swords based on the skill of the swordsmith as Jōjō-saku (excellent work), Jōsaku (superior work), Jōzu-saku (good work), and Futsū-saku (ordinary work). This particular piece ranks as Jōsaku in terms of its craftsmanship. This blade is Jyo Jyo saku ranking.
Polished.
Habaki: Silver foiled single Habaki.
Blade length: 74.9 centimeters 29.49 inches.
Curvature: 0.8 centimeters o,354 inches.
Peg holes: 1
Motowidth: 3.28 centimeters 1.291 inches.
Sakihaba: 2.06 centimeters 0.81 inches.
Weight: 830 grams
Time period: Edo period, during the Kan’ei era
This work features a wide blade, shallow curvature, and a slightly elongated kissaki. It embodies a sense of proportion and elegance.
Jigane: Itame hada with well-accumulated wood grain pattern.
Hamon: Straight tempered line with a mix of gunome and nie, resulting in a distinctive pattern. The bōshi is neatly rounded and tempered.
Special feature: Known as Ichinojō, he was the son of the first generation Yasutsugu and designated as a maker of excellent quality blades. He frequently incorporated the Aoi crest into his works.
Koshirae:
Tsuba: Circular tsuba made of copper.
Fuchikashira: Copper base with Kiyo Mon.
Saya (scabbard): Crafted from black lacquer mixed with finely carved rice leaf motifs, repeatedly coated and polished.
Menuki: Ise robster is engraved.
From Aoi Art: This piece is a practical work of art. It bears the Aoi crest, authorized by the Tokugawa family, which allowed the use of the family emblem. From then until the late Edo period, it became common to include the Aoi crest in works. There is a saya description written by Professor Tanobe.
Historical Background: Works from the Kan’ei period are characterized by a shallow curvature and elongated kissaki. As the era progressed, during the Kanbun period, the demand for shorter and more practical blades in battle led to sharper body configurations.
NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token
Aoi Art estimation paper
Whole Oshighata by Tsuruta Ayaka