Hello everyone!
I am a Judo instructor and am seeking any information regarding this Japanese sword that was transmitted to me through a lineage of masters. This piece holds immeasurable cultural value for me and for my Dōjō.
I would greatly appreciate any help in better identifying the blade's period and characteristics. What makes this sword truly unique to me is the incredible story of how it came into my possession.
The Story of the Sword's Lineage
According to the account I received, the history of the sword's transmission is as follows:
The Ancestral Donor (Nakajima Clan): The first known guardian of this sword was a member of the ancient Nakajima Clan in Japan.
The Connection to the Founder: This individual from the Nakajima Clan had the distinct honor of being a direct student of Jigoro Kano (1860-1938), the founder of Judo and the Kodokan in Japan.
The First Transmission: Kano's student passed the sacred blade to one of his own disciples, a respected Judo Master.
The Succession of Masters: This Master, in turn, transmitted the sword to another masterful Judoka who attained the rare red belt (a symbol of the highest level of knowledge).
The Unbreakable Chain: From there, the blade was entrusted to the Shihan (Master of Masters) of my own Judo Shihan.
The Legacy in My Hands: Finally, the symbol was transmitted to my Shihan, who entrusted the sword to me to continue his Judo teachings.
My Request to the Forum
Regardless of any monetary value, this sword is a physical reminder of the spirit of Judo and the philosophy of Budo. It has witnessed the transition of Japanese martial arts and is charged with the discipline, honor, and wisdom of masters dedicated to the way of Jigoro Kano.
I deeply appreciate any information that can be provided about the blade
