Aoe On Aoi

[Kronos]

http://www.aoijapan.com/wakizashi-mumei-aoe-2

 

I just came across this and thought it looked fantastic. I can't help but feel if this were anything other than an o-suriage Wakizashi it'd be a shoe in for Juyo?

It seems to me that you can get excellent blades like this for a lot lower prices that show wonderful workmanship as they're greatly shortened and just waki's in general.

[Ray Singer]

I think it's telling that Tsuruta-san rated the sword as saijo saku. Clearly he also felt it to be Juyo quality.

 

Best,

Ray

[paulb]

James

I absolutely agree with you. It is possible to obtain some beautiful examples of early work in wakazashi form. It is not unreasonable to think that a cherished blade if damaged or just for change of circumstance and use might be shortened by the owner. As a result I have come across O-suriage blades now in wakazashi form by Rai kunitoshi Enju Kunitoki and Shikkake Norinaga. All of them exhibit top level workmanship and none of them would have been affordable in daito form

It is well worth looking out for this type of blade. Being short may prohibit it receiving a Juyo paper (so what!) but the craftsmanship is there to be enjoyed.

Welcome to the "Size doesnt matter" club!