Wakizashi Identification Assistance Requested

[tsubacurious]

I acquired this Wakizashi blade at an estate sale some years ago.  It is housed in a plain wooden saya.  Blade length is 20-3/4", and the overall length is just under 26".  The signature is quite clear.  There are no nicks or pits in the blade, and it should polish nicely.  I would be pleased to receive any comments that members may have.  Thank you.

 

Chris

[French nihonto]

A very pleasant blade, for the signature I will let the great specialists express themselves. The black traces on the surface are fine rust or dirt? I can't see.  I'm thinking more of rust but maybe try to pass some alcohol on it to see what comes off and what remains. As pure as possible for the alcohol. Then a thin layer of light oil.

[dwmc]

Hello Chris,

I would also suggest as Maxime mentioned above, a light coat of oil on the blade.

The signature on the nakago appears to be Kanemitsu,  other board members will surely correct me if I'm mistaken.

There were many swordsmiths using the name Kanemitsu from Koto to Showa. Your sword appears to be in fairly good condition outside of the light surface rust.

Judging from the nakago, I would guess the sword is at least Koto or early Shinto. Of course, as with many swords there are things that don't seem to make sense such as the large Mekugi-ana below the signature. Normally, this is due to the sword being shortened, however, too me, the nakago appears ubu. Again, other members may have a more accurate explanation...

Dave M.

 

 

 

 

[Shugyosha]

Hi Dave, it’s signed “Kanesaki”. Maybe one of the Inaba ones? Anyhow, doesn’t use the abbreviated form of this “Kane” character so that should help to pin it down. 

[Geraint]

Really not sure about the first kanji but I think the second is saki.

 

All the best.

 

Edit, John beat me to it.

[dwmc]

Correction...Good eyes Gentlemen...Horizontal stroke not diagonal..."Kanesaki"

 

Dave M.

[tsubacurious]

Thank you for the generous offering of information, gentlemen.

 

Chris