Jwrussell

Thank you, Steve! Amazing and quick help. Very much appreciated!!!

Here’s the mystery paper. There is a partial Oshigata on the back that is of a different blade.

Looking for some help. I was able to manage the Kanteisho paper by looking at examples. Kind of lost with the envelope though. Also, when putting the paper back I found a mystery sheet of copies paper. Curious as to what this is. Just something stuck in by accident?

Do you see anything about the paper that seems incorrect? I do like the blade but I do want to know if there is a problem.

Tom, I feel like I’m probably prodding a hornet’s nest here...but I’m sensing reserved negativity. If I’m reading too much into it my apologies, otherwise, I welcome honest feedback.

Hoping folks are still looking here, because I have some questions. FIrst, for Geraint (and anyone else), what are your thoughts on Ubu or O-Suriage? AOI classified this as O-Suriage in their description. As we discussed earlier, there could be some evidence both ways. Second, what is everyone's thought on this following blurb that was in the "sales ad", so to speak, from AOI: Seems to be a little out of left-field throwing in references to Yukimitsu and Norishige? Not entirely, I guess. Having read up on some of Norishige's work I can definitely see why this blade might evoke some of his style. Anyway, was curious on everyone else's thoughts. Also, in another section they state: I'm having trouble finding any information on the bolded part. Any further information on this smith that anyone can point me to is of course appreciated!

Tom, yes sir. The papers posted above. The blade came in Shirasaya with Koshirae. I will post a quick picture of the Koshirae. As AOI put it “Koshirae is not so luxury but it also not so bad.”

I may or may not have an evil little grin on my face, Brian. Ha. Really though, I had considered noting that this would be a difficult one to call and that it was off the beaten path, but didn’t want to discourage or influence anything. With that said we did have one or two Echizen within the responses.

Alright then! As promised. I hope this was enjoyable for everyone. Being so new to the hobby I very much appreciated the insight and questions offered. NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Attributed to Esshu Mitsuyuki Active mid-late 1300’s. part of the Echizen Kanazu group

Wow

Ok folks. Last bit of info and pics. As promised I will post the paper tomorrow. The seller’s description calls out Itame and Masame Hada and Gumome-Midare and Choji-Midare mixed Hamon with Sunagashi and Kinsuji present. I have had a terrible time trying to classify the Hamon myself. “MIXED” is definitely the correct word for me. I don’t believe the polish is quite where it needs to be for me to truly see everything that is there. That said, with every turn of the blade there is something new to see.

Good luck Piers!!! Eager to see the results.

Hmmm...maybe, maybe not? Though I only see this in this distinct area, not on the other side or further up the blade.

Another tweaked image of the other side...

Further to Geraint’s question of Yakisashi. I find it difficult to answer this question, but I believe it is a very important one to clear up. My understanding of Yakidashi is the exact point at which the hamon begins, below the hamachi. Interestingly, I find multiple definitions of this word on my library and their differences are far from helpful! 😂 with that said, please refer to the image above that I posted as well as the following picture. Are we seeing Yakidashi that is simply hidden at its very beginning by patina, or is it more likely this is indeed NOT an ubu blade, but Suriage instead?

And another Boshi picture, highly “messed with” on my iPhone. Not sure if it’s better or worse.

I will post the paper on Monday. In the meantime, here are some further notes and pictures. to Geraint: Regarding the Boshi, I find it incredibly difficult to not only photograph, but view clearly. To my eyes, my best guess is a Midare Komi. The style of the Hamon clearly flows into the Kissaki and hence the Boshi. Here are some further pictures.

Even for seasoned collectors, does it make sense to suggest using a product that CAN cause damage, rather than a product that CAN NOT? I would say the question that needs to be answered is, is there some reason why we should consider using uchiko OVER microfiber...

Wait for others with more knowledge, but I'm going to say fake/repro. The handle appears to be all metal. I doubt there is a "tsuka" to take off, in all honesty. Probably all one piece? I'm no expert, so could very well be wrong, but it doesn't look authentic to my eyes.

Patience my Dark Friend. I will post the paper, just want to see if anyone else wants to take a stab.