Ordering number:AS24600
Wakizashi: Shirasaya with Koshirae (NBTHK Hozon Token)

Signature: Bishu Osafune Sukesada
Eisho 8 Nen 8 Gatsu Hi (August, 1511)
備州長船祐定
永正八年八月日

We rank swords into four categories: Saijyo Saku, Jyojyo Saku, Jyo Saku, and Regular Saku.
This work is ranked as Jyojyo Saku for a swordsmith from Bishu Osafune Sukesada.
Habaki: Single-layered gold-plated habaki.
Blade Length: 57.4 cm (22.6 in)
Curvature: 1.7 cm (0.67 in)
Mekugi Holes: 2
Width at Base (Motohaba): 2.96 cm (1.16 in)
Width at Tip (Sakihaba): 1.98 cm (0.78 in)
Thickness (Kasane): 0.64 cm (0.25 in)
Era: Muromachi period, August, Eisho 8 (1511).
Shape: A robust work with a slightly wide body and thick kasane, featuring deep curvature and an extended kissaki.
Jigane (Steel): The jigane is well-forged with clear utsuri, indicating a high-quality steel structure.
Hamon (Temper Pattern): The hamon is a bright, clear gunome-midare with a fine nioi-deki, creating a sharp and vibrant appearance. The boshi transitions into a midarekomi style.

Features: This work, dated August of Eisho 8, is a robust and finely crafted sword by Bishu Osafune Sukesada, now 513 years old. The blade displays excellent craftsmanship, differing greatly from mass-produced works. The well-forged jigane exhibits a clear utsuri, showcasing its exceptional quality.

Koshirae (Mountings):
Tsuba (Handguard): Mokko-shaped tsuba made of suaka with a family crest.
Fuchikashira (Hilt Fittings): Suaka fittings with a depiction of Daruma on the kashira and intricate carvings of an unknown but well-crafted design on the fuchi.
Saya (Scabbard): Black ishime lacquered saya.
Menuki (Handle Ornaments): Suaka with Daruma motifs.
Historical Context:
The Battle of Funaokayama, fought on August 23, 1511, during the Eisho era, involved Hosokawa Takakuni and Ouchi Yoshihiro supporting Shogun Ashikaga Yoshitane against Hosokawa Sumimoto, who backed former Shogun Ashikaga Yoshizumi. This battle was pivotal in determining control of the Muromachi Shogunate and the leadership of the Hosokawa clan.

NBTHK Hozon Token
Aoi Art Estimation Paper
Whole Oshigata

Auction Starting Price:550,000JPY

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