{"id":30562,"date":"2022-08-18T11:48:23","date_gmt":"2022-08-18T02:48:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/?post_type=product&p=30562"},"modified":"2022-11-11T17:23:14","modified_gmt":"2022-11-11T08:23:14","slug":"antique-japanese-sword-katana-signed-by-fujiwara-toshinaga-nbthk-tokubetsu-hozon-certificate","status":"publish","type":"product","link":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/product\/antique-japanese-sword-katana-signed-by-fujiwara-toshinaga-nbthk-tokubetsu-hozon-certificate\/","title":{"rendered":"Antique Japanese Sword Katana Signed by Fujiwara Toshinaga
NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon<\/strong> <\/span>Certificate"},"content":{"rendered":"

Antique Japanese Sword Katana Signed by Fujiwara Toshinaga with <\/span>Tokubetsu Hozon<\/span> <\/span>Certificate<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\u3010Description\u3011<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0This blade was sigined by Mutsu no kami Fujiwara Toshinaga(\u9678\u5965\u5b88\u85e4\u539f\u6b73\u9577), who is a well-known swordsmith, active during the early Edo period(Enpo era: 1673-1681<\/strong>). The sound of Toshinaga is considered good luck in Japan because it means to live long. It is said that the swords forged by him were very popular among high-classed Samurai because of his maker\u2019s name and highly skilled artistry.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0Toshinaga was born as the second son of the first-gen Toshinaga, who ran a prestigious school in Awa province(today\u2019s Tokushima prefecture in Shikoku island). In total, there were three sons studying the sword-forging technique under the father, including Toshinaga. They eventually moved to Yamashiro Koku(today\u2019s Kyoto) to become apprentices of Horikawa Kunihiro school, one of the most famous schools in Kyoto. Since Toshinaga moved to Kyoto, many of works were created there.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u00a0The first son and the third son signed as Toshinaga as well but received different titles. While the second son(the person who forged this blade) had Mutsu no Kami as an official title, the first son had Yamashiro no Kami, and the third son had Musashi no Kami. Kami<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0Later in his career, Mutsu no Kami Fujiwara Toshinaga moved to Ise province(today\u2019s Mie Prefecture) to serve Todo clan(\u85e4\u5802\u5bb6). Todo Takatora\uff08\u85e4\u5802\u9ad8\u864e) is the most famous figure in this clan, and he made a strong presence in Sengoku Jidai(Warring sate period). The Todo clan was one of the most powerful clans in that region during the early Edo period. Based on this fact, we presume Toshinaga\u2019s sword-forging technique was superb enough to impress the influential feudal family.<\/span>
\nHe only forged swords for the Todo clan after moving to Ise province.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0It is hard to conclude where he forged this blade, but it should be Yamashiro(Kyoto) or Ise(Mie prefecture) based on the historical record.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0This blade is appraised as a Tokubetsu Hozon<\/strong> Token(\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 are a couple of light black rust on the blade. If you like to know the detailed condition, please feel free to contact us.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

\u3010 Blade\u3011<\/span><\/strong>
\nCutting Edge Length(Nagasa)<\/span><\/strong>\uff1a 68.1 cm( 26.8 inches)<\/strong>
\nCurvature(Sori)<\/span><\/strong>\uff1a 1.65<\/strong>\u00a0cm( 0.65 inches)<\/strong><\/p>\n

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Hamon<\/strong><\/span>\uff1a
\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

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Nakago<\/strong><\/span>\uff1aNakago is the tang of the Japanese sword. <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0Japanese 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 t<\/span>ang was created over time, and it is a great indicator for a Japanese sword specialist to estimate when the sword was forged.<\/p>\n

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Koshirae:\u00a0Koshirae 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

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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

\u00a0Plants are designed on this Fuchi Kashira. It seems golden color was initially applied to each motif. Due to the shapes of leaves and flowers, we think these plants are a combination of the Karakusa (\u5510\u8349, arabesque) pattern and the Kiri (\u6850, paulownia) pattern. The Karakusa pattern is a design in which stems and leaves of vines are twined and make curves. Since ivy has a strong vitality and grows up without interruption, people regarded this design as a symbol of prosperity and longevity.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The Kiri (\u6850) pattern is generally composed of three standing straight inflorescences and three leaves. The number of flowers that are blooming at each inflorescence means the ranks of this design. This plant pattern was once used by the imperial family and national leaders of the time. Today, this plant pattern is used as the crest of the Japanese Government.<\/span>
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\nTsuka and Menuki<\/strong><\/span>\uff1aTsuka is the handle of the Japanese sword and Menuki is its decoration.<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0Judging from what we can see from the gaps of the Tsukamaki thread, we think its motif is Samurai-related items. Especially a weapon which has an elongated, curved shape is assumed to be a bow. Since an arrow motif was a design that reminded Samurai of games and battlefields, it is not difficult to imagine that bow motifs related to arrows were also incorporated into sword mountings.<\/span>
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\nTsuba 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

\u00a0Oval-shaped Tsuba that has Kozuka and Kougai holes. The Ume (\u6885, Japanese apricot blossom) is designed for this Tsuba. Although some colorings have already faded due to aging, it seems that gold-colored paint was initially applied to each flower and bud. Tiny flowers and buds grow all over the branches; it enhances the decorativeness of this work. Japanese apricot blossoms begin to bloom in winter that snow still covers its tree, so people thought this flower tells the arrival of spring. Same as cherry blossom, it has been appreciated for a long time in Japan. People enjoy its adorable petal shape and scent, gracefully branched tree, and compose many poems. As it comes out in the cold season, it symbolizes the power of perseverance and vitality.<\/span>
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\nSaya<\/strong><\/span>\uff1a Saya is the scabbard for the Japanese sword.\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Authentication Paper<\/strong><\/span>\uff1aNBTHK TOKUBETSU Hozon Certificate for the blade (No.1014465)<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0NBTHK<\/a><\/span><\/span>, 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 Nov. 9th in the 2nd year of Reiwa (2020). 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><\/span> for your record if you request.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Registration Number : <\/span><\/strong><\/span>Aichi 15628<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0The Board of Education in Aichi 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

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\u3010About us\u3011<\/span><\/strong>
\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

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\u3010Japanese Sword& Export Process<\/strong>\u3011<\/span>
\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

\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.
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

\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>
\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. 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,CHF\u00a0<\/strong>or GBP<\/strong>. The price is set in Japanese Yen. Prices in other currencies are automatically calculated based on the latest exchange rate.
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* 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>
\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

\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

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\u3010How to make sure the condition\u3011<\/strong><\/span>
\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

\u3010How To Contact Us\u3011<\/strong>
\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

\u3010The Art of Nihonto(Japanese Sword)<\/strong>\u3011
\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

\u3010A Guide to Japanese Sword Maintenance<\/strong>\u3011<\/span>
\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