Antique Japanese Sword Wakizashi Signed by Yasutsugu with NBTHK Tokubestsu<\/span> Hozon<\/span> Certificate<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n \u3010Description\u3011<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Summary<\/span><\/strong> \u00a0He was especially active in sword-forging during the Kanbun era(Early Edo period:\u00a0<\/span>1661-1673<\/span><\/strong>). He was the third son of the first-gen Yasutsugu, one of the most famous swordsmiths during the early Edo period.<\/span><\/p>\n First-gen Yasutsugu<\/span><\/strong> By Hideyasu\u2019s recommendation, the first-gen Yasutsugu became Okakaekaji for the Tokugawa shogun family, meaning that he exclusively forged swords for the Shogun family. Yasutsu was acknowledged by the first and second Tokugawa Shoguns, Tokugawa Ieyasu, and Tokugawa Hidetada.<\/span><\/p>\n The first-gen Yasutsugu received \u5eb7(YASU) from Tokugawa Ieyasu and changed his maker\u2019s name. He was also allowed to inscribe the holly oak symbol(family crest of Tokugawa) on the tang.<\/span><\/p>\n Fascinating History of the third-gen Echizen Yasutsugu<\/span><\/strong> When the second-gen Yasutsugu was deceased in the third year of Seiho(1646), the next heir of the school, the first son of the second-gen, was just 17 years old. His name was\u00a0<\/span>Umanosuke<\/span><\/strong>\u00a0(\u53f3\u99ac\u52a9). Because of his young age, there was a dispute within the Echizen Yasutsugu school over who would become the third head of Yasutsugu school.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0The students of the second-gen Yasutsugu and Shogun\u2019s arms office supported Umanosuke to be the third-gen Yasutsugu. However, Shirouemon, the third son of the first-gen Yasutsugu, insisted that he should be the one to take over his father\u2019s school and property. Shirouemon was a younger brother of the second-gen Yasutsugu.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0This dispute was eventually solved in such an interesting manner. Yasutusu school decided to have two third-gen Yasutsugu. While Umanosuke was officially appointed as the heir of Yasutsu school and became the third-gen Yasutsugu in Edo city, Shirouemon founded the Echizen Yasutsugu school. From this point, there were two branches of Yasutsugu school; Edo and Echizen.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0Back then, Yasutsugu swordsmiths were requested to forge swords in Echizen and Edo back and forth every year, but this tradition ended after this dispute was settled.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0Echizen Yasutsugu lasted for the 9th generation, and Edo Yasutsugu school lasted for the 12th generation from the third-gen Yasutsugu.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n The third-gen Echizen Yasutsugu was allowed to inscribe a holly oak symbol, which suggests that his craftsmanship was highly regarded among Tokugawa Shogunate back then.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0This blade is appraised as a Tokubetsu Hozon Token<\/strong>(\u7279\u5225\u4fdd\u5b58\u5200\u5263) issued by NBTHK(Nihon Bijutsu Touken Hozon Kyokai:\u65e5\u672c\u7f8e\u8853\u5200\u5263\u4fdd\u5b58\u5354\u4f1a). This authentication paper was only given to authentic Japanese swords, especially well preserved and high quality with artistic value.<\/span><\/p>\n *Please keep in mind that there is a small chip on the tip of the blade. If you like to know the detailed condition, please feel free to contact us.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n \u3010Blade\u3011<\/span><\/strong> <\/p>\n Hamon<\/strong><\/span>\uff1a Nakago<\/strong>\uff1aNakago is the tang of the Japanese sword.<\/strong><\/p>\n Japanese swordsmiths left the black rust on the tang because it prevents red rust while the tang is in its handle. And the discoloration of the tang was created over time, and it is a great indicator for a Japanese sword specialist to estimate when the sword was forged.<\/p>\n Koshirae: Koshirae is the mounting of the Japanese sword. There are several parts that consist of Koshirae such as Saya(Scabbard), Tsuka( Handle), Tsuba(Handguard).<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Fuchi-Kashira<\/strong><\/span>\uff1aA pair of matching sword fittings that cover the upper and bottom parts of its sword hilt.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n This Fuchi Kashira has a simple look made from elegant black-colored metal. Its surface is decorated with the Nanako-Ji (\u9b5a\u5b50\u5730) technique. It produces delicate fish egg-shaped protrusions by hitting with the Nanako-Ji Tagane (\u9b5a\u5b50\u5730\u93e8), which is typically used for this technique. Each protrusion is arranged evenly and makes a well-balanced pattern; it enhances the decorativeness of this work. Seeing from the gaps of the Tsukamaki thread, you will find that small flowers are designed. The Kiku (\u83ca, chrysanthemum) is the motifs of this Menuki. Some parts are colored with golden paint, and it seems this coloring remains in good condition. Engraved lines representing the lines of the petals and veins are visible.<\/p>\n A long time ago, the chrysanthemum was used as a medicine for obtaining a long life, and it was brought to Japan from the continent with this thought in the Nara period (648-781). Chrysanthemum symbolizes fall, and people have greatly appreciated it since ancient times. As its petals form radially, the chrysanthemum has been likened to the sun. That is why this flower pattern is treated as the symbol of perpetual youth and longevity or good health. Tsuba and Habaki<\/strong><\/span>\uff1aTsuba is the handguard for the Japanese Sword and Habaki is the equipment to make the blade not touch its scabbard inside. It prevents the blade from getting rusty and chipped.\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n Oval-shaped Tsuba that has Kozuka and Kougai holes. Although most of the golden colorings have already faded due to aging, we believe you would imagine and enjoy its ornamental appearance. Even the side of the Mimi (edge of Tsuba) part is decorated with golden inlay.<\/p>\n About the motif, it is a combination of flowers: the Suisen (\u6c34\u4ed9, narcissus) and chrysanthemums. We have already mentioned the chrysanthemum pattern in the explanation of Menuki. Therefore, here we focus on the narcissus motif.<\/p>\n According to a theory, this flower’s shape was likened to the figure of a Sennin (\u4ed9\u4eba, mountain hermit) who stands still on the Mizube (\u6c34\u8fba, waterside); therefore, narcissus was named “\u6c34\u4ed9.” It is unknown when narcissus was brought to Japan, but it became popular in the Edo period. The famous painters back then enjoyed drawing this flower in their works. Also, the narcissus pattern was designed for various items such as Fusuma (\u8956, a type of Japanese partition) paintings, ceramics, or Kosode (\u5c0f\u8896, a kind of traditional Japanese costume). This flower was also favored in tea ceremonies due to its elegant look and fragrance. It shows how popular this flower was among people at that time; we guess some Samurais cherished it. Understandably, this plant motif was incorporated into sword mountings.<\/p>\n \u00a0Another theory says that some people have treated this flower as a good luck talisman of success in life. Also, since it blooms in a severe cold season, even when it snows, it is said narcissus flower has the power to repel adversity. This flower symbolizes intelligence, and the second letter of its Japanese name, “\u4ed9,” has the meaning of longevity. In this way, the narcissus motif has various auspicious connotations.<\/span> Saya<\/strong><\/span>\uff1a Saya is the scabbard for the Japanese sword.\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/span> <\/p>\n Authentication Paper<\/strong><\/span>\uff1aNBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Certificate for the blade (No.1017679)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0NBTHK<\/span><\/a>, also known as Nihon Bijutsu Touken Hozon Kyokai (the Society for the Preservation of the Japan Art Sword), is one of the oldest Japanese sword appraising organizations in modern-day Japan. They authenticated the blade on Mar. 2nd in the 4th year of Reiwa (2022). They appraised it as Tokubetsu Hozon Touken, the blade especially worth preserving for Japanese society. The purchaser will receive this original certificate as well. We can also translate what is written into English and make a PDF file<\/span><\/a> for your record if you request.<\/span><\/p>\n Registration Number :\u00a0<\/span> Kanagawa 14847<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span> \u3010About us\u3011<\/span><\/strong> \u3010Japanese Sword& Export Process<\/strong>\u3011<\/span> \u00a0Each Japanese sword is registered under the Agency for Cultural Affairs and the Board of Education in Japan. They issue a registration paper for each Japanese sword for its owner in Japan to legally possess it. The Japanese sword with its registration paper means it was traditionally hand-forged in Japan. \u00a0To legally export the sword from Japan to other countries, we will have to apply for its permit to the Agency for Cultural Affairs(Bunkacho) and return the original registration paper to the Board of Education. It normally takes around 2-4 weeks<\/strong> to receive this permit after submitting required documents. And we would like you to expect at least 1-1.5 months<\/strong> for your order to arrive at your given address after you ordered. For more detailed info, please click here<\/span><\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0It is allo<\/span>wed for residents in Japan to own authentic Japanese swords without a special license as long as they come with registration papers. Please feel free to contact us if you are a resident of Japan, whether temporarily or permanently. We will also assist you when you leave Japan and need to obtain the export permit.<\/p>\n \u3010Payment Method\u3011<\/strong> * If the amount is above 1 million JPY, Stripe or wire transfer will be the only options for payment.<\/p>\n \u3010Shipping\u3011<\/strong><\/span> \u00a0We normally ship by EMS<\/strong>(Express Mail Service) provided by Japan Post. When we receive an order from the Canada we will use FedEx<\/strong> instead as EMS temporarily stops shipping from Japan to those countries due to COVID-19.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0We will send you a tracking number for your order as soon as we hand it to the post office\/FedEx. We will put 100 % insurance on the shipping document without any extra charge. Based on the total amount, there might be a duty tax or other fee for you to pay, depending on the countries. We use package cushioning to protect the item and put it in a PVC pipe, which is one of the most secure packages because of its durability.<\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0It will normally takes 5-14 days for the item to arrive at your given address after we dispatch it. Time of delivery is estimated as accurately as possible by the carrier but does not take into account any delays beyond our control such as by inclement weather, post office holiday seasons.<\/span><\/p>\n * If you live in Australia and like to purchase an authentic Japanese sword, please click here<\/span><\/span> <\/a>to know the detail.<\/strong><\/p>\n *Please keep in mind that due to the spread of COVID-19, there might be delays in shipping. If you like to know the detail about shipping, please feel free to ask us.<\/strong><\/p>\n \u3010How to make sure the condition\u3011<\/strong><\/span> \u3010How To Contact Us\u3011<\/strong> \u3010The Art of Nihonto(Japanese Sword)<\/strong>\u3011 \u3010A Guide to Japanese Sword Maintenance<\/strong>\u3011<\/span>
\n\u00a0This blade was forged by the third-gen Echizen Yasutsugu(\u8d8a\u524d\u4e09\u4ee3\u5eb7\u7d99), according to the NBTHK\u2019s appraisal. The signature also has AOI Mon (holly oak symbol).<\/span><\/p>\n
\n\u00a0It is said that the first-gen Yasutsugu was born in Shimosaka town in Shiga prefecture at the end of the Muromachi period(Late 16 century ). He built his career there until the beginning of the Keicho era(1596). However, he moved to Echizen province due to the relocation of the lord he served. He eventually was noticed and supported by Matsudaira Hideyasu, the third son of Tokugawa Ieyasu, who was the founder of the Edo government. Hideysu was the feudal lord of Echizen province during the early Edo period. <\/span>With the support of Hideyasu, the first-gen Yasutsugu established the Echizen Shimosaka school. And his school\u2019s fame became nationwide.<\/span><\/p>\n
\n\u00a0The first gen Yasutsugu died in 1621, and his first son took over the school and became the second-gen Yasutsugu. The second gen was deceased in 1646. As we explained earlier, the third-gen Echizen Yastsugu was the third son of the first-gen Yasutsugu. His real name was\u00a0<\/span>Shirouemon<\/span><\/strong>(\u56db\u90ce\u53f3\u885b\u9580).<\/span><\/p>\n
\nCutting Edge Length(Nagasa)<\/span><\/strong>\uff1a 46.0 cm (<\/strong><\/span> 18.1 inches)<\/strong>
\nCurvature(Sori)<\/span><\/strong>\uff1a0.6 cm ( 0.23 inches)<\/span>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Kanagawa14847_tousin2-scaled.jpg\")
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\nThe crystalline structure which forms along the cutting edge of a blade as a result of the hardening process<\/strong>
\nJimon(Jihada)<\/span><\/strong>\uff1a
\nvisible steel surface pattern created by folding and hammering during forging process<\/strong><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Kanagawa14847_katana.jpg\")
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\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Kanagawa14847_tuka3-scaled.jpg\")
\nTsuka and Menuki<\/strong><\/span>\uff1aTsuka is the handle of the Japanese sword and Menuki is its decoration.<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Kanagawa14847_tuka-scaled.jpg\")
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\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Kanagawa14847_tuba-scaled.jpg\")
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\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Kanagawa14847_saya-scaled.jpg\")
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\n\u00a0The Board of Education in Kanagawa prefecture issued a registration paper for this sword . It is called Jyu Token Rui Torokusho(\u9283\u5200\u5263\u985e\u767b\u9332\u8a3c). Bunkacho(The Agency for Cultural Affairs) acknowledges a Japanese sword with this paper as a work of art.
\nThe sword needs to be traditionally hand-forged and made of Tamahagane carbon steel to be registered in the system. With this paper, its owner in Japan can legally own an authentic Japanese sword. Based on this registration number, we will apply for its export permit.
\nThis paper will need to be returned to the board of education when the sword is being shipped abroad, but you can receive a copy of it. An English translation of this registration paper is available on request.<\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/Kanagawa14847_touroku-scaled.jpg\")
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\n\u00a0Samurai Museum is located in Tokyo, Japan, exhibiting antique artifacts related to the Samurai history. Samurai Museum Shop is the place for those who are interested in Japanese culture and craftsmanship. We deal with antique Samurai swords\/armor, traditional crafts made in Japan and so on. <\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/07\/5623eabfdde4147c0ecdc704028c6ecd.jpg\")
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\n\u00a0The Japanese swords we deal with are hand-forged edged swords made in Japan. It was made from the traditional carbon steel called TAMAHAGANE(\u7389\u92fc)<\/span><\/a>. Samurai Museum is familiar with the proper legal procedure for an antique\/ authentic Japanese sword to be exported from Japan. We have sent more than 400 Japanese swords for the past three years (\uff5e2022) to amazing owners who appreciate its historical value. <\/span><\/p>\n
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\nWe accept payment through Stripe <\/strong>(Credit card), PayPal<\/strong>, Apple Pay or ChromePay, all of which are secure payment methods. Also, you don’t need to make an account on Stripe for the checkout. <\/span>If you prefer other payment method, please contact us. After confirming your payment, we will apply for an export permit. You may either pay in JPY, USD, AUD, CAD,EUR <\/strong>or GBP<\/strong>. The price is set in Japanese Yen. Prices in other currencies are automatically calculated based on the latest exchange rate.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/12\/SSL_payment_1222-01-1.jpg\")
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\n\u00a0We have shipped authentic Japanese swords to the USA, UK, Canada, Mexico, Germany, Switzerland, France, Hong Kong and Australia<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/span>. If you don’t live in these countries and like to order, please contact us first before making a purchase. We offer Free International Shipping<\/strong><\/span> as long as we can send antique Japanese swords by either EMS or FedEx(Canada).\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/48026a8af882b8fafae180fa48fbd5f4.jpg\")
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\n\u00a0Please keep in mind that what you are going to purchase is an antique item. We uploaded high resolution photos for you to check its condition thoroughly. If you like to see more photos with different angles, please feel free to contact us. We will be happy to send them to you so that you can make informed decision.<\/span> It is essential for us to know that you are happy with your choice of a sword. and we are prepared to use the best of our ability to serve you.<\/span><\/p>\n
\n\u00a0Please contact us through email, Facebook Messenger or Live Chat if you have any questions. You can find each icon on the right side of the w<\/span>ebsite. Please click one of them to reach us. We will reply to you within 1-2 business days.<\/p>\n
\n\u00a0Samurai’s history is a profound, eloquent legacy of ancient Japanese warriors in which millions of people worldwide are being fascinated. If y<\/span>ou like to find out the art of Nihonto, please click here.<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n
\n\u00a0After acquiring an genuine Japanese sword, it is also important to know how to take good care of it. Here is the special video for you. Mr. Paul Martin, Japanese sword expert, shows you how to give proper maintenance to your sword. By mastering how to clean the Japanese sword, its aesthetic beauty will last forever.<\/span><\/p>\n