Do polishers still use nagashi lines ?

[Jim P]

Hi all, I was looking at one of our swords and noted it did not have them on the habaki-moto and as it is an old sword

it had me thinking do they still use them? I read that " kesho-migaki is relatively a recent phenomenon in the history of Nihon-to: It became more common after WWII " from (http://www.una.edu/faculty/takeuchi/DrT ... migaki.htm) and was also told few polishers would do them these days. Was the practice only amongst highly regarded togi-shi or did all togi-shi use them ? thanks

[loui]

Some do and some don't, I find that if you do then it muddles up the ability to see the tempered area - which is why we leave that portion un-burnished.

 

Some also say that it shows the skill of the polisher - but I think the skill of the polisher is shown by his work on the blade itself and not by how well he uses a tool and guide to draw some straight lines on a sword. They can be attractive but they can also cover up the beauty of the sword which is what we are supposed to bring out.

 

Louis

[Jim P]

Hi Louis, Do you think it more about what school of togi that the particular polisher belongs to ? thanks

[Stone]

I am sure I read or was told that the Honami was the first to do it & as far as I know still do,?

Regards,

Tony N.

[loui]

Yes I think you both are right but there are always exceptions.

 

Louis