{"id":73349,"date":"2025-08-11T15:19:10","date_gmt":"2025-08-11T06:19:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/?post_type=product&p=73349"},"modified":"2025-08-27T12:27:42","modified_gmt":"2025-08-27T03:27:42","slug":"antique-japanese-sword-wakizashi-signed-by-sukesadanbthk-tokubetsu-hozon-certificate","status":"publish","type":"product","link":"https:\/\/www.samuraimuseum.jp\/shop\/product\/antique-japanese-sword-wakizashi-signed-by-sukesadanbthk-tokubetsu-hozon-certificate\/","title":{"rendered":"Antique Japanese Sword Wakizashi Signed by Sukesada
NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon<\/strong> <\/span>Certificate"},"content":{"rendered":"

Antique Japanese Sword Wakizashi Signed by Sukesada with NBTHK Tokubetsu<\/span> Hozon<\/span> Certificate<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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

\u00a0This blade bears the signature \u201cBizen no kuni ju Osafune Shichibe no jo Sukesada\u201d (\u5099\u524d\u56fd\u4f4f\u9577\u8239\u4e03\u5175\u885b\u5c09\u7950\u5b9a) on one side, and the date \u201cMeireki 3rd year, 8th month\u201d (1657) on the other.<\/span>
It was forged by Shichibe no jo Sukesada, a prominent swordsmith of the Bizen Osafune Sukesada lineage in Okayama prefecture.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The Sukesada school was one of the most celebrated and productive branches within the Osafune tradition, which itself was the largest and most prosperous school in Bizen province. Over centuries, many generations of Sukesada swordsmiths produced blades in a variety of styles, responding to both battlefield demands and peacetime ceremonial needs. At one point, around sixty swordsmiths were using the name “Sukesada,” making it a well-known and trusted brand among samurai across Japan.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0Shichibe no jo Sukesada was the eldest son of Yokoyama T\u014dshir\u014d Sukesada, a famed swordsmith of the late Muromachi to early Edo period. He was also the father of Yokoyama Ueno Daij\u014d Sukesada and proudly called himself the grandson of the fourth-generation master Yos\u014dzaemon-j\u014d Sukesada. Shichibe-j\u014d forged blades well into old age\u2014reportedly living to 98\u2014and left behind numerous fine works that are prized by collectors today.<\/span><\/p>\n

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This History of Bizen Osafune School<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The Bizen Osafune school traces its roots back to the mid-Kamakura period and its founder Mitsutada (\u5149\u5fe0). Over time, the school produced many legendary smiths, including Nagamitsu, Sanenaga, and Kagemitsu\u2014collectively known as the Osafune Sansaku (\u201cThree Great Masters of Osafune\u201d)\u2014as well as the so-called Osafune Shitenn\u014d (\u201cFour Heavenly Kings of Osafune\u201d): Nagamitsu, Kanemitsu, Nagayoshi, and Motoshige.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0Bizen\u2019s geographical advantages\u2014rich iron sand deposits from the Ch\u016bgoku Mountains, abundant water from the Yoshii River, and plentiful high-quality charcoal\u2014made it an ideal center for sword-forging. This environment enabled the creation of Bizen-den, one of the five great traditions (Gokaden) of Japanese sword-making, known for its beauty, durability, and excellent cutting ability. Many Bizen blades, including works by the Sukesada school, were carried into battle during the Sengoku (\u201cWarring States\u201d) period and are today regarded as both artistic and historical treasures.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u00a0It 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

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*Please keep in mind that there is a couple of Kitae Kizu on this blade.\u00a0 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)<\/strong>:59.6<\/strong>\u00a0\u00a0cm (23.4 inches)<\/strong><\/span><\/span>
\nCurvature (Sori)<\/strong>: 0.6\u00a0 cm (0.23 inches) <\/strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

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Hamon<\/strong>:\u00a0<\/span>
\nThe crystalline structure which forms along the cutting edge of a blade as a result of the hardening process.<\/strong><\/span>
\nJimon(Jihada)<\/span><\/strong>:\u00a0<\/span>
\nvisible steel surface pattern created by folding and hammering during forging process<\/strong><\/span><\/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>: <\/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>
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Fuchi-Kashira<\/strong>:<\/span>A 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 the Hatou Zu (\u6ce2\u6d9b\u56f3), which depicts large undulating and splashing waves.\u00a0A<\/span>s waves\u2019 movements continue endlessly, the wave pattern represents eternity, immortality, longevity, birth, etcetera. Also, since tides repeatedly change the shape and terrain of rocks, some people hoped for a strong will by using this motif. People used this pattern wishing for an indomitable spirit to rechallenge time and time without giving up. Thanks to its dynamic design, this motif has been appreciated, especially for men\u2019s Kimono (traditional Japanese costume). It is also said that warlords used wave patterns on their banners and armors, comparing the movement of battle to that of waves coming and going.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Tsuka and Menuki<\/strong><\/span><\/strong>:\u00a0Tsuka is the handle of the Japanese sword and Menuki is its decoration.<\/b><\/p>\n

\u00a0We believe the theme of this Menuki is Seashells (\u8c9d\u5c3d\u304f\u3057, Kai Dukushi).<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0This pattern is a combination of different types of seashells. It is often designed with a seaside scene or wave pattern. You would feel the refreshing atmosphere of summer. Bivalves, especially clam, its shells cannot be combined with any other clam\u2019s frame; therefore, its pattern represents happy marriage.<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0Seashell is called Kai (\u8c9d) in Japanese. Because of its pronunciation, the seashell has another meaning. There is a word Yarigai (\u3084\u308a\u304c\u3044, worthwhile). As a part of this word has the same accent as Kai (\u8c9d is read Gai in some cases), Japanese people found this meaning. Also, since seashells are hard and combine only with their pair, people thought it represented a robust defense. Due to these meanings that inspire warriors who go to the battlefields, Samurais might have loved this motif.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Tsuba and Habaki<\/strong>: <\/span>Tsuba 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

\u00a0The motif of this tsuba is a dragon (\u7adc \/ Ryu). In Japan and East Asia, dragons have long been revered as mythical creatures that govern water and rain, symbolizing power, prosperity, and protection.<\/span>
Unlike the fire-breathing dragons of the West, Eastern dragons are regarded as benevolent beings that bring blessings, and they were often depicted on arms and sword fittings to convey wishes for the owner\u2019s protection and strength.<\/span><\/p>\n

*Please keep in mind that the gold inlay decoration has partially worn away over time.<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n

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Saya<\/strong>:<\/span>\u00a0Saya is the scabbard for the Japanese sword.\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The scabbard features a traditional finish known as samegawa togidashi (\u9bab\u76ae\u7814\u304e\u51fa\u3057), or polished ray skin.<\/span>
In this technique, ray skin is applied to the surface of the scabbard and then coated with lacquer. After the lacquer hardens, the surface is carefully polished to partially expose the natural texture and nodules of the ray skin beneath. This method not only highlights the unique pattern of the skin, but also enhances both the durability and aesthetic refinement of the scabbard.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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Authentication Paper<\/strong>: <\/span>NBTHK TOKUBETSU Hozon Certificate for the blade (No. 1023857)<\/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 December 4th in the 6th year of Reiwa (2024). 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>:\u00a0<\/span> Tokyo 18894<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0The Board of Education in Tokyo 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.
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\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, UK, Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, Hong Kong UK<\/a>, <\/span><\/span>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 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

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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