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Condition: antique - good - out of polish
Manufacturer: New Information about maker and province
Author: Kanesada- sword maker
Nice signed Japanese Wakizashi Sword - Shinto
I just received some interesting information from a very nice gentleman who was kind enough to give me the full translation from the tang markings. This Samurai Wakizashi sword, is actually signed as follows;
Izumi = a Japanese province
no Kami = an honorary title
Kanesada = the swordsmith's name
This additional information is greatly appreciated. I am an admirer, but nothing close to knowledgeable enough to trust my own translations, so thank you again James.
This old Samurai Sword dates to Japan's Shinto Period, which makes this blade between three and four hundred years old. Hard to believe something so old could still look so good. The reason these old Japanese swords so often seem to have ignored the passing of time is that to Japan's Master sword smiths, their entire life was dedicated to sword making. Their dedication to their work elevated the craft to an art. None before and no one since has even come close to matching their skills.
This great antique wakizashi is one of those fine, proud swords. I tried to include as many important photos as possible, but if you would like to see more, please ask.
This wakizashi measures 18 and 1/2 inches from tip to notch, 26 inches in all. I have had this for several years and in that time I've added a very old tsuka that looked good and fit well. The tsuka has been used hard and has a lot of character, which I think suits the blade. The tsuba is one I chose only because it fit well and by doing that it would help protect this great old blade. It is of the WWII style and will do until the right one comes along. The saya is a perfect fit to the sword and has always been with it. As you can see it needs a little repair, but overall it is solid and strong. The blade is strait and sharp and true. Yes it is in need of a polish, but the kissaki is excellent and the body is free of any major defects. The temper line is quite nice, but at times hard to find. As the photos show, this sword is full of life. A fine Shinto period wakizashi, signed by its maker nearly four centuries ago. Now I call that a treasure. JM
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