Ordering number: 23350
Wakizashi: In Shirasaya (NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token)
Inscription:Hoki no Kami Taira Ason Masayuki
伯耆守平朝臣正幸
Kansei 4 Nen Ne 8 Gatsu
寛政四年子八月
Shinshinto: Jojosaku: Satsuma
At our company, we categorize swords based on the craftsmanship quality into classifications such as “Highest Grade,” “Very Good,” “High Grade,” and “Regular.” This piece is ranked as a “Very Good” work in terms of its craftsmanship quality.
Polished
Habaki: Gold foiled double-layered habaki
Blade Length: 54.2 cm
Curvature: 1.4 cm
Peg Hole: 1 hole
Base Width: 3.30 cm
Tip Width: 2.37 cm
Thickness: 0.7 cm
Weight: 635 grams
Era: Edo period, Kansei 4 Nen Ne 8 Gatsu
Shape: A wakizashi with a wide body, substantial thickness, and a slightly deep curvature. It has a healthy niku-oki (fleshy placement) at the tip.
Jigane (Grain Pattern): The jigane displays a tightly packed ko-itame hada, forming a refined and almost plain surface with a blackish hue.
Hamon (Temper Pattern): The hamon features a deep notare mixed with bo-utsuri, exhibiting active ashi (legs).
Special Features: Hoki no Kami Taira Ason Masayuki was a student of Shoji Masachika. He initially used the surname “Ijichi,” and the first generation’s name was Masayoshi. In the first year of Kansei, he took on the title of Hoki no Kami and adopted the name Masayuki. He left a legacy in the field of swordsmithing education, including publishing books on sword forging, until his passing at the age of 87 in the 2nd year of Bunsei.
Hoki no Kami Taira Ason Masayuki is one of the prominent swordsmiths representing Satsuma. He created numerous works, and his style had an impact on other swordsmiths in the Kyushu region. His unique design of vertical lines at the nakago-jiri (tang end) is considered a measure to prevent counterfeiting. The off-centered placement of these lines is also a distinguishing feature. If the lines are centered at the nakago-jiri, it might indicate a fake signature. Additionally, his swords are recognized for having thicker hagane (the outer layer of the blade), making it possible to remove rust effectively. If you come across a rusted blade by Motohira or Masayuki, it is recommended to purchase and have it polished by a professional.
From Aoi Art: This piece is a sound work that evokes the masculine history of Kagoshima. Kagoshima has been home to significant figures such as Saigo Takamori, Sakamoto Ryoma, and Tokugawa Yoshimune, and this work captures the essence of that historical significance.
NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token paper
Aoi Art estimation paper: whole Oshigata by Ayaka Tsuruta
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