Additional Images

Note:

This blade is crafted in shinogi-zukuri (the classic ridged, double-edged samurai-sword form) with a iori-mune (peaked back). The width at the base (mihaba) is slightly broader than average, giving the sword a firm, powerful stance from the base to the yokote (the line dividing the body of the blade from the tip). It features a deep, waist-centered curve and a second, gentle upper curve leading into a medium-sized kissaki (tip). Altogether, the shape projects the bold, heroic character associated with the Sengoku (Warring States) period.

The forging displays a very fine ko-itame grain (small, wood-like pattern), mixed with delicate mokume (burl-like figures). The blade surface features shimmering ji-nie and an irregular midare-utsuri, a pale reflective pattern highly prized in Bizen-school work. During the turbulent eras from the late Muromachi through the Azuchi-Momoyama period, family clans and commanders demanded swords of substantial mass, thick spine (kasane), high shinogi ridge, and a deep, functional curvature. Following the outbreak of the Ōnin War (1467-1477), blade proportions evolved rapidly. By the Eishō-Daiei era (1504-1527), typical lengths were around 60-63 cm, suited for one-handed combat. Later in the Kyōroku-Tenbun era (1528-1540), lengths increased to roughly 66 cm, and by Ganki-Tenshō (1570-1591), they often exceeded 70 cm. Tang lengths (nakago) grew as well, adapting to two-handed fighting methods.

Within Bizen Province, the late-Koto “Sue-Bizen” (also called Eishō-Bizen) smiths, working from approximately 1504 to 1595, were particularly renowned. Leading makers included Katsumitsu, Tadamitsu, Munemitsu, Kiyomitsu, Sukesada, Sukemitsu, and two notable smiths signing Norimitsu. Their swords are celebrated for their reliability, beauty, and battlefield performance.

The present sword retains the deep curvature favoured for quick drawing from the scabbard and for agile, one-handed techniques. Its construction, which features a high shinogi-suji ridge and a robust, well-filled hiraji, was designed for superior cutting power and battlefield durability. The fine ko-itame forging, using exceptionally refined steel, is hardened toward the stronger side, displaying both soft reflective utsuri and a bold, energetic hamon (temper line).

Although the inscription is slightly worn, the workmanship aligns closely with that of the Norimitsu lineage. Impressively heavy in hand and remarkably well preserved, this sword has survived more than five centuries while retaining the strength, presence, and spirit of its Warring States origins.