Ordering number: AS24412

Katana: Shirasaya with Koshirae (NBTHK Hozon Token)

Signature: Mumei (Unsigned) attributed to Takada Munekage.
無銘(高田統景)むねかげ

Ranking: As a work by Takada Munekage (unsigned), it is ranked as Jyo Saku.
Habaki: Copper with single-layer construction.
Blade Length: 66.6 cm (26.22 in)
Curvature: 2.0 cm (0.79 in)
Mekugi Holes: 3
Width at Base (Motohaba): 2.89 cm (1.14 in)
Width at Tip (Sakihaba): 2.19 cm (0.86 in)
Thickness at Rim (Kasane): 0.57 cm (0.22 in)
Sword Weight: 660 g (1.46 lbs)
Era: Muromachi Period
Shape: A robust blade with notable width and a deep curvature, featuring a long kissaki (tip).
Jigane (Forging Pattern): Prominent itame-hada with ji-nie and a vivid surface texture.
Hamon (Temper Line): A suguha (straight temper line) with small nie,
displaying activities like ko-ashi and yo. The boshi shows irregularity and ends with a sweeping return.

Features: The Takada school, including Munekage, produced remarkably fine works.
Ancient blades of this school are sometimes misattributed to Ichimonji due to their high quality.
This often occurs because Takada works are confused with Edo-period blades.
Careful evaluation is needed to appreciate the distinctive qualities of the Takada school.
This blade is an excellent example, showcasing superb craftsmanship.

Koshirae (Mountings):
Tsuba (Handguard): Circular iron tsuba.
Fuchi (Hilt Collar): Shakudo nanako with motifs of the moon, clouds, and bats.
Kashira (Pommel): Horn.
Saya (Scabbard): Glossy black lacquered finish.
Menuki (Ornaments): High-relief carvings of dragons on shakudo nanako.

Aoi Art’s Comment:This blade, attributed to Takada Munekage, boasts exceptional hamon and jigane.
The koshirae, adorned with bat motifs, presents a refreshing design where the crescent moon and dark clouds stand out prominently.

NBTHK Hozon Token
Aoi Art Estimation Paper
Whole Oshigata

Auction Starting Price:380,000JPY

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