Katana - Japan - Edo Period (1600-1868)

This Japanese sword, nihontō (katana), crafted by the renowned swordsmith Mizuta Kunishige during the Genroku period (1688–1704), represents a distinctive piece of samurai history. It is a testament to craftsmanship within traditional Japanese sword-making and to the artistic skill that flourished especially during this period—a time of peace when the status of the samurai class began to return to its roots, including the exclusive right to carry swords.

Mizuta Kunishige came from the Bingo Miyoshi faction, a remarkable group of swordsmiths whose origins can be traced back to the Sengoku period. He established his forge in Fukuyama, Bitchū Province, in the middle of the Edo period. The blade bears the inscription 'Bingo Miyoshi Mizuta Kunishige,' indicating his prestigious heritage.

The card, known as 'Hen-nuri Saya,' features a unique lacquered pattern that adds extra aesthetic and cultural value. Among the decorations are motifs of plum blossoms (ume), which are deeply symbolic in Japanese culture. The plum tree blooms vigorously despite the winter cold and therefore symbolizes perseverance and hope, aligning well with the ethos of the samurai.

The sword comes with an original certificate from the Nihon Bijutsu Tōken Hozon Kyōkai (NBTHK), confirming its authenticity and quality. The NBTHK is one of the leading organizations for the assessment and preservation of Japanese swords. Additionally, a copy of the firearms and swords registration certificate from the Tokyo Prefecture is included, as the original is held by the authorities. The registration number is 293414, with the following specifications:

Length: 66.3 cm
Curvature: 1.8 cm
Length with koshirae: 96.8 cm
Blade length: 84 cm
Period: Genroku (1688–1704), Edo period
Country of origin: Japan
Made by: Bingo Miyoshi jū Bitchō Miyoshi-jū Mizuta Kunishige 水田國重
One peg hole

Issued on August 16, 2005 (Heisei 17). The sword is in good condition but shows slight wear consistent with its age.