Ordering Number: AS25817

Katana in Shirasaya, with Koshirae (NBTHK Hozon Token).

Signature: Dewa Akita ju Matsuyama Hidehiro saku.
Dated: February, Keio 4 (1868).
出羽秋田住松山英広作
慶応四年二月日

(We divide 4 sections for each sword as Saijyo Saku, Jyojyo Saku, Jyo Saku and Regular Saku).
This work is ranked as Jyo Saku for Dewa Akita ju Matsuyama Hidehiro.
Habaki: Silver-plated single habaki.
Blade Length: 68.3 cm (26.89 in).
Curvature: 1.5 cm (0.59 in).
Mekugi Hole: 1.
Width at Base (Motohaba): 3.14 cm (1.24 in).
Width at Tip: 1.92 cm (0.76 in).
Thickness (Kasane): 0.65 cm (0.26 in).
Shape: Slightly wide mihaba with thick kasane, bohi and soehi carved on both sides, and an extended kissaki.

Hamon: Nie-deki with ko-gunome-midare continuing to the tip.
The boshi turns back in a rounded form.
Era: Late Edo period, Keio 4 (1868).

Features: Matsuyama Hidehiro was a swordsmith from Akita in Dewa province.
At first glance, his work resembles that of Munenobu.

Koshirae:
Tsuba: Iron tsuba with kiri crest.
Fuchikashira: Iron ground with gold arabesque design.
Saya (Scabbard): Black saya with cloud design.
Menuki: Iron ground carved with dragon design.

Aoi Art’s Comment: February of Keio 4 (1868) is effectively the beginning of the Meiji era.
During this time, especially for younger smiths, sword production was largely restricted.
It was also a period when it became difficult to inscribe one’s name on blades.
Soon after, the Haitorei (Sword Abolishment Edict) was issued, leading many craftsmen to abandon their trade.
Although this work is clearly signed “Dewa Akita ju Matsuyama,” it is regrettable that the smith was eventually forced to give up sword making.

NBTHK Hozon Token.
Aoi Art estimation paper: Whole Oshigata.

Please note: the price does not include the shipping fees.

Auction Starting Price:500,000JPY

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