Researching This Sword...can You Help?

[Jdepport]

Hi All,

 

I am brand new to this forum, and have signed up as it is about time I researched a sword that was given to me roughly 10 years ago. I know almost nothing about Japanese swords, so please forgive me if I ask basic/silly questions.

 

My brother bought the sword at auction and gave it to me as a gift as I was training in Ju Jutsu at the time. I was perhaps a little naive and didn't really consider that there might be an interesting story / history to the sword. I would like to put that right now and find out more (if there is anything to find!)

 

I would appreciate any information you can provide, from whether this is a genuine sword or not, to any information on the smith, the quality, age etc...

 

 

I am attaching a number of photographs which I hope will allow some of you to comment. I have had the inscription translated by a friend in Australia that speaks Japanese. I am told it reads 'Matsuda Masahiro'. A quick search online has not provided much so far.

 

In terms of construction, all I can really say is that the saya is lacquered wood with brass decoration. The blade is heaver than I was expecting and is magnetic (I read somwhere that this is important).

 

Thanks in advance guys, it really is appreciated.

 

Jamie

[Jdepport]

Here are some other photographs...

[Kurikata]

Jamie,

 

it is not a Japanese sword but a chinese replica.

 

regards

[Jdepport]

Thaks Kurikata, thanks for the super fast response.

 

That is dissapointing to hear, but knowing is better than wondering.

 

If I might ask, what is it about the sword that identified it as fake?

 

Thanks,

 

Jamie

[Marius]

http://www.jssus.org/nkp/fake_japanese_swords.html

[Jdepport]

Interesting reading...thank you

[Kai-Gunto]

Chinese made