Tai1z

Thank you all. Has anyone looked at Mr Schiller's summary of Japanese laws and advice regarding import into Japan. I'm sure many of you have your own experience. http://www.jssus.org/nkp/japanese_sword_laws.html Any more recent advice or experience? Glenn T

Hi Nick, As I am beginner and debating whether or not to remove a signature (see thread Mystery Sword) I am wondering if Nihonto are often unsigned and in this case (beautiful work btw) if it is unsigned or signature removed. I think I understand the removal from a commercial POV but personally and from an art history POV, the "forgery" of a signature occurred for a curious reason in a quite ancient context. Did fine artists of Nihonto cast off many "imperfect" blades unsigned? Respectfully, Glenn T

Dear Ford, Truly inspirational. There is remarkable example of artistry, science, patience, imagination, problem solving here. As a father and teacher it was very special to see your son working away at something in the background while you worked. The film was moving in so many ways. Thank you. Grateful. Glenn T

Is it possible that works (Nihonto) which have been kept as ceremonial pieces are just rarely polished? Ps grateful for your comments and thoughts. I will be copying all your ideas for my dad to read for his education. He remembers the day he received it, early 50s. Glenn T

Dear message board, Thank you again for your comments and advice and those who have gone to great effort. Glenn T. A couple more photos I have with me. Anyone restore binding and scabbards?

Thank you again gentlemen. I appreciate your sharing of knowledge, opinion and words of caution. When I have more info I'll share it. Regards Glenn T

Thanks again. Appreciated. Some more detail pictures, Glenn T

Thank you again all, Here are a few more pics that may shed light. Don't want to bombard. My uncle was a Padre with JFOR from New Zealand Navy and was given the sword by his personal assistant/translator/driver and I am trying to trace his steps there through other channels. I truly do appreciate your assistance, Glenn T

Thank you. I would very much like for it to go to Shinsa but from Australia? How? Glenn T

Dear Members, I am looking for an opinion and advice on this sword which was a gift to my great (padre) uncle in Japan 1947. It is said to have belonged to Ikeda clan (according to a small translated text). As an Australian, there seems to be no regular Shinsa or other process to authenticate the artefact. My interest is to follow my fathers wish to try to reunite the sword with the family who gave it to my great uncle or lend it for exhibition. Thank you Nihonto Message Board Glenn T I apologise if I have incorrectly used terminology.