Product Title Rare 1846 Japanese Sword Book Shochu Koto Meikan Samurai Katana Blacksmith Signatures Koka 3 Antique Woodblock Print Manual Product Description This is an authentic Japanese woodblock-printed book published in 1846 during the late Edo period. It serves as a comprehensive pocket guide for identifying famous traditional samurai sword makers. The pages are filled with detailed reference marks, including various authentic blacksmith signatures and inscriptions. Collectors of Japanese weaponry and historical blades will find this manual incredibly informative. It offers a direct look into how swords were authenticated by connoisseurs over a century and a half ago. Such historical reference books are becoming harder to find in complete and well-preserved conditions. Product Condition As this is a 180-year-old antique book, the cover shows expected signs of wear and aging. However, the inner pages remain in good condition with clear text and crisp illustrations. You can clearly see the details of the sword shapes, tangs (nakago), and hamon patterns. Please refer to the photos carefully to check the specific details of its condition. Artist & Publisher Background This exceptional volume is officially registered in national databases under the main title "Shochu Koto Meikan" (掌中古刀銘鑑). The term "Shochu" means a pocket-sized or palm-sized book, designed for samurai and merchants to carry easily. It is also widely recognized by its alternative titles, "Unchimeishuu" (雲智明集) and "Kantei Hijiroku" (鑑定秘事録), found on its cover and inside the preface. Compiled by traditional scholars, it reflects a deep respect for samurai culture and the art of blade appraisal. The intricate carving of the woodblocks was done by master artisans dedicated to preserving sword lineage. Publishers in the late Edo period collaborated on these guides to meet the high demand among collectors. Their meticulous work ensured that the precise strokes of old inscriptions were perfectly captured for posterity. National databases:https://kokusho.nijl.ac.jp/biblio/200000850/1?ln=en Product Size Dimensions: 18.5 cm × 8.5 cm (7.3 inches × 3.3 inches) ＊＊PLEASE NOTE＊＊ Shipping Information: Items are shipped from Japan. Please check the shipping fee before bidding as this is an international shipment. Items are packed very carefully to prevent damage in transit. Shipping costs are calculated based on the net weight listed on the product page, packing materials, and shipping box weight. Depending on the situation, items will be shipped via FedEx, DHL, or Japan Post. Usually takes 2-3 weeks. Import duties, taxes and fees are not included in the item price or shipping charges. These charges are the responsibility of the buyer. You may be contacted by phone or email by your country's customs or shipping agent regarding customs clearance. Please make sure you are available to answer the phone. Otherwise, the parcel will be returned to us and you will be charged double for reshipment. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.