Help With translating and possibly identifying Wakizashi

[MChoina]

Hi All,

I recently bought two wakizashi swords at auction. Bought two of them because they happened to be lotted together. Always found them fascinating, but until now never had the chance of owning one. One of them has a mei, and is only slightly curved, almost straight along the rear edge. The other tang is unmarked.

 

The blades appear to have seen better days. The previous owner had wrapped the unmarked blade in plastic wrap, which over time stuck securely to the blade. I cleaned it with alcohol, but there are still marks. The wakizashi with the mei looks more interesting, it has a kogatana and kogai in the scabbard. But sadly the blade edge appears to have some damage.

 

In any case, I know far far less about these than I'm sure all of you, and I would appreciate some help with translating the mei, and perhaps understanding what period the other blade may be from.

 

Many thanks, Matt

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Grey Doffin]

Hi Matt,

If you take photos on a black background, those of us with old eyes will be better able to read the signature. Grey

[uwe]

I guess “濃州関住兼景” (Nōshū Seki Jū Kanekage)…

[Brian]

Not terrible condition, both genuine, and a nice wari kogai. I think you did well.