hemi-man

I believe Kondo San might have been a business owner around the Sapparo area. He is listed in the book "Hyaku nin Hyakken" edited by Shibata San. Anyone from the Hokkaido area have any background on Kondo San? Thanks , Wayne

I have a sword that is pictured in the book "Hundred Persons', Hundred Swords" printed in 1963. There is a sword listed as being owned by Koukichi Kondo. Would appreciate any background for Kondo San and his importance in the Japanese community. Best, Wayne

Dear Moriyama San: I am assuming that Ito Masanaga and Ito Kishinaga are the same smith. (After reading description of sword offered back when by JSA auction) One mei was used at Minatogawa JInga and the other at Shichisei to which was used by Minatogawa smiths to make special order swords one their "off time". Any information on Shichisei-to will be greatly appreciated. It was also in Kobe and as I understand, right on the river near Minatogawa Jinga? Any and all help appreciated..

Brian had previously talked about a sword that was signed by Masanaga. Moriyama San from Tokyo helped out with a portion of the translation. Is a copy of the shibata papers available for all of us to look at? Does Brian still have it available to look over? I was also wondering if this sword has kikusui mon on it and it possibly the first "missing" portion of the signature be Nanoa? I am doing research on Masanaga and his connection with the Minatogawa Jinga. Any and all help will be greatly appreciated..Wishing all a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season. Wayne in cold Chico, Calif.