{"id":61186,"date":"2025-01-09T17:19:32","date_gmt":"2025-01-09T08:19:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/?post_type=product&p=61186"},"modified":"2025-07-06T20:35:24","modified_gmt":"2025-07-06T11:35:24","slug":"antique-japanese-sword-katana-attributed-to-kashu-ietsugu-nbthk-hozon-certificate","status":"publish","type":"product","link":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/product\/antique-japanese-sword-katana-attributed-to-kashu-ietsugu-nbthk-hozon-certificate\/","title":{"rendered":"Antique Japanese Sword Katana Attributed to Kashu Ietsugu
NBTHK Hozon <\/span>Certificate"},"content":{"rendered":"

Antique Japanese Sword Katana Signed by Kashu Ietsugu with NBTHK Hozon<\/span> Certificate<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

Summary\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0This blade is attributed to Kashu Ietsugu (\u52a0\u5dde\u5bb6\u6b21<\/em>), a swordsmith active during the late Muromachi period (early 16th century). The term Kashu<\/em> (\u52a0\u5dde<\/em>) refers to the province now known as Ishikawa Prefecture (\u77f3\u5ddd\u770c<\/em>), historically called Kaga Province (\u52a0\u8cc0\u56fd<\/em>).<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0Ietsugu lived and worked in this province, crafting swords as his livelihood. During his time, Kaga Province was under the rule of the Maeda clan. The Maeda family originally served as retainers of the Oda clan , which governed Owari Province (\u5c3e\u5f35\u56fd<\/em>, modern-day Nagoya in Aichi Prefecture). The Maeda clan\u2019s rise to power began with its first leader, Toshiie Maeda, who advanced through the ranks of samurai society to become the feudal lord of Kaga Province.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0Toshiie Maeda governed a domain famous for its vast rice production, known as Hyakuman Goku<\/em>, symbolizing wealth sufficient to feed one million people. Under Toshiie\u2019s leadership, the Maeda clan became one of the most influential samurai families in history, maintaining strong ties with both Oda Nobunaga (\u7e54\u7530\u4fe1\u9577<\/em>) and Hideyoshi Toyotomi (\u8c4a\u81e3\u79c0\u5409<\/em>).<\/span><\/p>\n

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Tachi Koshirae\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0This blade is stored in Tachi(\u592a\u5200) Koshirae. Tachi was mainly used by an armored Samurai with one hand on horseback from the Heian period (794-1185 A.D.) until the early Muromachi period. TACHI was suspended loosely on the left waist with its edge facing the ground so that you could draw it faster to cut down soldiers on the ground. Because of its gorgeous looking, having a Tachi-style sword mounting became a social status among Samurai.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u00a0This blade is appraised as a Hozon Touken <\/strong>(\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, well preserved and high quality with artistic value.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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*Please keep in mind that there are a few noticeable Kitae Kizu on this blade. If you like to see the detailed condition, please feel free to contact us.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

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\u3010Blade\u3011<\/span><\/strong>
\nCutting Edge Length (Nagasa)<\/span>: \u00a068.6\u00a0 cm ( 27.0 inches)<\/strong><\/span>
\nCurvature (Sori)<\/b>:\u00a0 2.0<\/strong>\u00a0<\/span><\/span>cm (0.78 inches)\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

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Hamon<\/strong>:\u00a0<\/span><\/span>
\nThe crystalline structure which forms along the cutting edge of a blade as a result of the hardening process.<\/strong>
\nJimon (Jihada)<\/span><\/strong>:<\/span>
\nVisible steel surface pattern created by folding and hammering during forging process.<\/strong><\/p>\n

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Nakago<\/strong><\/span>: Nakago is the tang of the Japanese sword.<\/strong><\/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 tang was created over time, and it is a great indicator for a Japanese sword specialist to estimate when the sword was forged.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Koshirae<\/strong>\uff1a<\/span>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

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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

\u00a0The Kabutogane (\u5191\u91d1\/\u515c\u91d1) is a metal fitting that is attached to the end of a handle. And a Sarute\/Sarude (\u733f\u624b) is attached to this Kabutogane. The user of a sword passed the Udenukio (\u8155\u8cab\u7dd2, a cord wrapped around the wrist to prevent a sword from falling out of the hand, mainly used when riding a horse) through this ring. In addition, the Fuchi Kanamono (\u7e01\u91d1\u7269) is also a metal fitting attached to the handle, but on the opposite side of Kabutogane. These parts correspond to the Fuchi Kashira (\u7e01\u982d) in Katana Koshiraes (\u5200\u62f5).<\/span>
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Tsuka and Menuki<\/strong><\/span>\uff1aTsuka is the handle of the Japanese sword and Menuki is its decoration.<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The Menuki features a dragon, a powerful and revered symbol in Japanese culture. In Japan, dragons are often associated with water and rainfall, signifying their role as guardians of rivers, seas, and skies. They are seen as benevolent creatures that bring prosperity, good fortune, and protection. Additionally, the dragon is a symbol of strength, wisdom, and authority, embodying a mystical power that transcends human limitations. As a mythical creature deeply rooted in Japanese folklore and traditions, the dragon is often considered an auspicious emblem that wards off evil and ensures harmony.<\/span><\/p>\n

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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

\u00a0This Tsuba has the same motif, paulownia (\u6850, Kiri), as the Fuchi Kashira. Also, this Tsuba has a shape which is similar to a Yotsu-Mokkou (\u56db\u30c4\u6728\u74dc) shape, which is a circular design with indentations along the edges. It is also made of iron, which makes it strong and durable.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0If you focus on the four corners, you will find a heart-mark hole at each corner. On this Tsuba, you could find eight heart marks in total on each side. This heart mark-shaped design is the Inome (\u732a\u306e\u76ee, boar\u2019s eyes) pattern. It has been used since ancient times. Some people believed the Inome pattern would bring good luck and protect people from evil spirits or fire.<\/span>
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Saya<\/strong><\/span>\uff1aSaya is the scabbard for the Japanese sword.\u00a0\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

*Please keep in mind that there are a few traces of the restoration on this Saya.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0We estimate the surface of this Saya is decorated with double-flowered plum (\u516b\u91cd\u6885, Yae-Ume). The Yae-Ume tree, celebrated for its profusion of layered blossoms and graceful appearance, is cherished as an ornamental plant. Its deep connection to Japanese traditions stems from its symbolic representation of “longevity,” “vitality,” and its remarkable ability to bloom even in the harsh cold of late January. These qualities have established it as a quintessential emblem of celebration and good fortune, alongside pine and bamboo in the classic trio known as “Sho Chiku Bai” (\u677e\u7af9\u6885).<\/span><\/p>\n

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Authentication Paper<\/strong>: <\/span>NBTHK Hozon Certificate for the blade (No.3034928)<\/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 August 25th in the 3rd year of Reiwa (2024). They appraised it as Hozon Touken, the blade 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

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Registration Number<\/span><\/strong>: Iwate 34298<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The Board of Education in Iwate prefecture issued a registration paper for this sword. It is called Jyu Hou Token Rui Tourokusho (\u9283\u7832\u5200\u5263\u985e\u767b\u9332\u8a3c). Bunkacho (The Agency for Cultural Affairs) acknowledges a Japanese sword with this paper as a work of art.
\n\u00a0The 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.
\n\u00a0This 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><\/span><\/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 1000 Japanese swords for the past few years (\uff5e2025) 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 <\/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

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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, Canada, Mexico, Germany , Belgium, France, Finland, UK<\/a>, <\/span><\/span>Hong Kong, Australia<\/a><\/span><\/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 EMS.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0We normally ship by EMS<\/strong>(Express Mail Service) provided by Japan Post. <\/span>We will send you a tracking number for your order as soon as we hand it to the post office. 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

* If you live in the UK and like to purchase an authentic Japanese sword, please contact us first and click here<\/span><\/span> <\/a>to know the detail.<\/strong><\/p>\n

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\u3010Review\u3011<\/strong>
\n\u00a0Here is o<\/span>ne of the reviews we received from a customer who purchased an authentic Japanese sword from us. For more reviews, please click here.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/a>
\n\u201cMy experience overall with the whole process was wonderful. I had many questions about the history and process to purchase these treasures. All my questions were answered very timely and complete. The staff is very knowledgeable and very well versed if any questions do arise.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\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