Kanenaga

This discussion is about art. Can we prevent it from degenerating into yet another pointless argument about AI? It's true that swords are no longer useful (except in martial arts training) but that does not, IMHO, make them any less utilitarian. They can certainly be beautiful, but beauty is not a synonym for art. A lot of art is not beautiful, but is meaningful -- which swords are not. I guess for some this is not an easy distinction.

Perhaps others have seen it before, but I just came across this YouTube video of an interview with Iida Yoshio san, current owner of the Iida Koendo sword shop in Tokyo. The shop deals mainly in high-level items, has been a family enterprise for several generations. The video is in Japanese with good subtitles, and gives some dealer perspective on the sword business, including a discussion on what defines a masterpiece -- linking to a thread on this forum last year: I have spoken with Iida san on several occasions at DTI. He is a thoughtful person who understands and speaks good English, and who has been open to interacting with foreigners who demonstrate some knowledge of swords and sword etiquette. I found his views worth listening to.

IMO nihonto are not fine art, which concerns itself mainly with the human condition. Nihonto are examples of applied art, aka industrial art. Here's how AI makes the distinction: Feature Fine Art Applied Art Primary Purpose To be observed, stimulate the intellect, and evoke emotion. To serve a practical function or commercial need. Use Exclusively for visual enjoyment; non-functional. Has a specific use Common Mediums Painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, and fine art photography. Graphic design, fashion design, industrial design, interior design, and ceramics. Creation Process Typically self-directed; dictated entirely by the artist's own vision. Often client-driven; heavily constrained by budget, and mass production.

Erik, it would be very helpful if you could share some details of your very negative experience. I am/was on the verge of making an offer to this seller (surname Masuda) but the mixed reviews on this old thread are making me xtra cautious. If anyone else can share recent interactions that would be much appreciated.

Thanks, Dale. Nice examples.

Atsu Toshiro, I think. Named for the celebrated maker, Toshiro Yoshimitsu.

Here's a Kaneie style tsuba with an unusual religious theme. It appears to show a saint or bodhisattva, perhaps kannon, duking it out with a pair of oni. Is there a recognizable story here? For all kannon's popularity as a religious icon, it's rare to encounter her/him on fittings. Are there other examples out there?

Hi Jussi, That will depend on what's to see, like special exhibitions. Nagoya is high on the list, then maybe a bit northward.

Hi all, I'm thinking about visiting Japan later this year, not connected to DTI. Can anyone tell me if there are any scheduled displays of swords and/or fittings that would be worth seeing? In addition, that is, to things that are always on display, like the items at the TNM. All recommendations will be appreciated.

https://www.bonhams.com/auction/32178/arts-of-the-samurai/?page=2 This is taking place this month, 51 swords, some tsuba. Does anyone know whose collection this is/was?

I think I am noticing a trend among some Japanese nihonto websites to no longer display the asking prices for some items. Is this perhaps an unintended consequence of NihontoWatch?

It's hard to tell from photos, but this could be a good sword in somewhat rough condition. Best to take good care of it until it can be evaluated in hand by a Japanese-trained polisher or someone comparable.

I came upon this auction by accident. Some tsuba, other kodogu, inro, etc. https://www.bonhams.com/auction/31871/fine-Japanese-and-korean-art/

Late, but as requested, here's that whole copper tsunagi. The "nagasa" is 13.5 inches, so o-tanto or ko-wakizashi.

I think Steve wrote muneami.