Jock Posted June 6, 2007 Report Posted June 6, 2007 Superb Japanese Katana by well known, acknowledged WWII smith 'Kanemichi', who is listed in Slough's book as a medium to high Showato and a high superior grade Gendaito smith. This smith was a Raikujin Tosho and was given a special honour seat in the 1941 exhibition. He is one of the most skilled Mino smiths, rated at 2,000,000 yen in the Tokotaikan and was a student under Watanabe Kanenaga. This smith had many students, one became the famous Asano Kanesane, who is highly prized amongst collectors worldwide. During the Second World War there was an insurgence of the Samurai spirit and many Japanese families would have new blades made and bought for their family members going to war. This sword is in traditional fittings emulating the Samurai spirit, with a dark green bound tsuka and menuki, which are actually mon of the Samurai family. The tsuba is very old and has silver inlay in the iron. The kashira and fuchi are quite lovely with the latter having a small bird etched into it (see photo). The blade nagasa is 70cm or 27 1/2 inches approx. and the blade is very well balanced. A special feature of the sword in the Jihada that you are able to see in the correct lighting conditions are images of mythical figures (difficult to see due to age of the sword). This is a rare opportunity to purchase a good example of a Second World War sword in excellent condition. The signature is very clear and states 'Made by Kanemichi' with a stamp above the signature. On the other side of the tang it says 'Made in February 1941'. The saya is in excellent, new condition. Quote
USMC-LCPL Posted June 6, 2007 Report Posted June 6, 2007 I can tell you it looks awesome! How did you come by it? Quote
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