{"id":69082,"date":"2025-05-25T13:55:42","date_gmt":"2025-05-25T04:55:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/?post_type=product&p=69082"},"modified":"2026-03-29T07:46:35","modified_gmt":"2026-03-28T22:46:35","slug":"antique-japanese-sword-tanto-attributed-to-den-takagi-sadamunenbthk-tokubetsu-hozon-certificate","status":"publish","type":"product","link":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/product\/antique-japanese-sword-tanto-attributed-to-den-takagi-sadamunenbthk-tokubetsu-hozon-certificate\/","title":{"rendered":"Antique Japanese Sword Tanto Attributed to Den Takagi Sadamune
NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon<\/strong> <\/span>Certificate"},"content":{"rendered":"

Antique Japanese Sword Tanto Attributed to Takagi Sadamune with NBTHK Tokubestsu<\/span> Hozon<\/span> Certificate<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0This blade is attributed to Den Takagi Sadamune (\u4f1d\u9ad8\u6728\u8c9e\u5b97), a swordsmith active during the early Nanbokucho period (early-mid 14th century) in Omi province (Today’s Shiga prefecture) . He is believed to have been a disciple of S\u014dsh\u016b Sadamune (\u76f8\u5dde\u8c9e\u5b97), and took the name “Takagi Sadamune” from residing in the Takagi area of G\u014dsh\u016b (an old name for present-day Shiga Prefecture).<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0According to one theory, S\u014dsh\u016b Sadamune himself may have also originated from G\u014dsh\u016b, leading to speculation that Takagi Sadamune may have been his son or an early work by Sadamune himself, giving rise to the so-called “second-generation Sadamune” theory. <\/span>Although no signed works by Takagi Sadamune are known to exist today, he is regarded as a notable swordsmith of the S\u014dsh\u016b tradition, and is held in high esteem alongside his master, Masamune, one of the most famous swordsmith in Japanese history.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Soshu Den<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0Swordsmiths residing in Soshu province (Today\u2019s Kanagawa prefecture) used a particular sword-forging tradition called Soshu Den. And, Shimada school also used this tradition to forge blades.\u00a0Shoshu Den was born in the middle of the Kamakura period (mid 13th century). Back then, the Yamato and Yamashiro traditions were highly developed, and there were a few renowned swordsmiths from those regions. However, the sword-forging practice was in its infancy in the Kanto area, where the Soshu region was located.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0At the beginning of the Kamakura government, which was established in 1185, the first Shogun, Minamoto Yoritomo, prioritized making a lot of rules to have its political stability. And he couldn\u2019t afford to hire swordsmiths within the same region or train them. Therefore, the Kamakura government originally ordered weapons to the swordsmiths in the other areas, such as Yamato and Yamashiro.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0But, since the government was established, the demand for weapons increased exponentially in the government, and they had to figure out how to meet those demands from Samurai who served Kamakura shogunate. Then, the 5th head of the Shogun, Hojo Tokiyori, invited two renowned swordsmiths from other parts of Japan. They were Awataguchi Kunitsuna from Yamashiro province and Bizen Saburo Kunimune from Bizen province. And the 7th-gen Shogun Koreyasu Shino also invited Fukuoka Ichimonji Sukezane from Bizen province.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0It is said that those three swordsmiths played an essential role in creating the Soshu Den and making the foundation of the Soshu Den. Also another famous figure in the Soshu den is Intou Kunimitsu, an adopted son of Awataguchi Knitsuna. And Kunimitsu passed his excellent craftsmanship to Yukimitsu, his apprentice. And Masamune, one of the most famous swordsmiths in Japanese history, was an apprentice of Yukimitsu.\u00a0 And Masamune was the one that brought Shoshuden to nationwide fame. Soshu Sadamune was an apprentice of Masamune.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The tradition Masamune completed became an example of other swordsmiths who learned Soshu Den. Also, Soshu Den influenced many renowned swordsmiths during the Koto- Shinto era. One of examples is Inoue Shinkai from Osaka and Suishinshi Masahide from Edo.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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*Please keep in mind that there is a couple of Kitae Kizu on the blade. If you like to know 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><\/strong>\uff1a31.2<\/strong>\u00a0cm\u00a0 ( 12.2 <\/strong><\/span>inches)<\/strong>
\nCurvature(Sori)<\/span><\/strong>\uff1a0.30 cm (0.07 inches)<\/span>\u00a0<\/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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Kissaki<\/strong>: <\/span>Kissaki is the tip\u00a0of the Japanese sword.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Nakago<\/strong>:<\/b> <\/span>Nakago 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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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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

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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 theme of this fuchi-kashira is \u201cHato-zu\u201d (\u6ce2\u6d9b\u56f3), or a wave and billow motif.<\/span>
Throughout history, countless Japanese artists and poets have been inspired by the powerful, ever-changing form of ocean waves. This design captures a single, fleeting moment of a wave\u2019s movement\u2014its surge, curl, and crash\u2014symbolizing both the beauty and the transience of nature. <\/span>Waves have long been used in Japanese art to express dynamic energy, the impermanence of life (muj\u014d), and the overwhelming force of nature. On sword fittings like this, the motif may also reflect the spirit of the samurai: calm on the surface, yet possessing immense power within.<\/span><\/p>\n

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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

\u00a0The menuki features the design of a rooster (\u9d8f, niwatori<\/em>), a motif rich with cultural meaning in Japan.<\/span>
In Japanese tradition, the rooster is a symbol of the sun and the coming of dawn, often associated with renewal, vigilance, and protection from evil. In Shinto belief, roosters were considered sacred messengers of the gods and were allowed to roam freely within shrine grounds, particularly at Ise Grand Shrine, where they would crow to greet the rising sun.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0Roosters are also admired for their courage and alertness, making them a fitting motif for samurai sword fittings. Their proud stance and keen awareness mirror the ideal qualities of a warrior\u2014readiness, dignity, and honor.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Tsuba and Habaki<\/span><\/strong>\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<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u00a0This tsuba features a dynamic combination of waves and a family crest (\u5bb6\u7d0b, kamon) that blends a chrysanthemum flower (\u83ca, kiku) with flowing water, known as the Kikusui-mon (\u83ca\u6c34\u7d0b). T<\/span>he chrysanthemum is a deeply significant flower in Japanese culture, symbolizing longevity, purity, and imperial dignity. It is most famously associated with the Japanese Imperial Family and is featured in the national seal of Japan. <\/span>The flowing water element represents continuity, vitality, and resilience, often seen in Japanese art as a metaphor for life\u2019s ever-changing nature. When combined, the Kikusui-mon\u2014chrysanthemum floating on or alongside running water\u2014embodies a harmonious balance between refined beauty and enduring strength.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Kozuka<\/strong><\/span>\uff1aKozuka is a small knife stored in Kozuka Hitsu(groove of the sheath of the Japanese sword).<\/b><\/p>\n

\u00a0This kozuka depicts a saddle (\u978d, kura) placed on a horse’s back and a short whip.
Just like Japanese swords, horse tack was often elaborately decorated and regarded as an important symbol of a samurai\u2019s aesthetic sensibility and social status. In particular, during formal occasions such as weddings, departures for battle, or grand ceremonial processions (\u76db\u5100, seigi), luxurious horse gear was used to convey dignity and formality, enhancing the prestige of the event.<\/span>
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Saya<\/strong><\/span>\uff1a Saya is the scabbard for the Japanese sword.\u00a0<\/strong><\/span>\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The motif of this Saya is the Hato-zu\u201d (\u6ce2\u6d9b\u56f3), or a wave and billow motif, same as the Fuchi Kashira and the Tsuba.<\/span>
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Authentication Paper<\/strong><\/span>\uff1aNBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Certificate for the blade (No. 1018517)<\/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 4th year of Reiwa <\/span>(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

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Registration Number : <\/span>Tokyo 28467<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The Board of Education in Tokyo 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 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, UK<\/a>, <\/span><\/span>Finland, 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