Katana - Tamahagane - Japan

【The Heritage of "Yamashiro-den" and the Brilliance of the Rai School】
In the history of Japanese swords, the "Gokaden" (Five Traditions) categorize the distinct regional styles. Among them, Yamashiro-den is renowned for being the most refined, elegant, and sophisticated. Based in Kyoto, this style was favored by Emperors, court nobles, and high-ranking Samurai—essentially the "Luxury Brand" of the sword world. The Rai School was the most prosperous lineage within Yamashiro-den during the Kamakura period, and Kuniyuki reigns at its apex as the founder. Please note that the datation and the attribution is given for reference only, and subject to authentication.

【Blade Highlights: The Serene Elegance of Yamashiro Steel】
This blade embodies the precise aesthetic ideals of the Yamashiro tradition and the Rai school.

Jigane (Steel Texture): The steel is meticulously forged into a fine Ko-itame (small wood grain) pattern, emitting the noble radiance characteristic of Yamashiro-den. When caught in the light, the moist texture reveals dense, crystalline Ji-nie, showcasing the clear quality sought by ancient master smiths.

Hamon (Temper Line): Based on a graceful Suguha (straight line), the border of the blade is softly covered in fine Nie particles, glowing with a bright and clear expression. Depending on the angle of appreciation, subtle activities (Ashi and Yo) emerge within the temper line, offering the profound depth unique to "Koto" (Old Swords).

【Extremely Rare: "Full Leather-Wrapped Koshirae" Preserving History】
What makes this piece truly exceptional is the rare and well-preserved "Sogawa-zutsumi" (Full Leather-Wrapped) Koshirae. This style, where the scabbard is entirely encased in leather, was a high-end specification chosen by high-ranking Samurai to protect precious blades from impact and humidity on the battlefield. The leather has aged into a calm, moist luster—a testament to the centuries it has survived. It exudes an overwhelming sense of gravity and dignity that sets it apart from standard lacquerware.

【Exquisite Fittings: Guardians of Heaven and Earth (Dragon & Lion)】
The fittings are as impressive as the blade itself, reflecting the high status of its former owner.

Menuki: The Valiant "Shishi" (Guardian Lion) The Menuki features a powerfully carved "Shishi," the king of beasts. A guardian of the earth believed to repel evil and bring victory, its leaping form injects "dynamic energy" into the quiet dignity of the leather wrap.

Fuchi-Kashira: The Royal "Dragon" in Gold/Silver Mud In contrast, the Fuchi and Kashira feature the "Dragon," the ruler of the heavens. Pairing the Lion (Earth) with the Dragon (Heaven) represents a powerful prayer for protection against all calamities.

Tsuba: Golden "Arabesque & Floral" Design The golden Tsuba, with its intricate floral carvings on a Nanako (fish-roe) ground, adds a flash of brilliance to the stoic leather exterior.

【Why This "Kuniyuki" Belongs in Your Collection】
The name "Kuniyuki," the founder of the prestigious Yamashiro-den, carries immense weight. The choice of a "Full Leather-Wrapped" style—forgoing flashy decorations to prioritize the protection of the blade—suggests that a previous owner deeply understood the value of the signature within.

At first glance, it is stoic and silent. Yet, upon closer inspection, the sharp gaze of the Dragon and Lion fittings and the finely forged blade begin to tell their story. This masterpiece, brimming with an "intellectual allure" that sparks curiosity, will surely serve as the new centerpiece of your collection. We invite you to welcome this blade—a vessel of timeless romance—into your hands.

【Condition / Size】
The koshirae includes a full leather cover. Although the position makes it difficult to secure perfectly, the tsuba is fitted with clasps designed for the cover.

Koshirae Full length: 100.2cm
TOTAL Length : 85.0cm
Blade length: 64.9cm
Motohaba : 2.8cm
Motokasane : 0.6cm
Weight : 0.6kg
Sori: 2.0cm


【Shipping costs】
Free shipping to all countries.


【Attention before bid】
This is a truly domestic Japanese sword that has never left Japan. To export, we need to obtain an export permit from the Agency for Cultural Affairs. It takes about 25 business days from the time the buyer makes payment to the time the transportation process begins.

Please note that depending on the destination country, air shipping may not be available, in which case we will ship by sea freight. Sea freight typically takes 2 to 3 months.

As a reference, we have successfully shipped to France and Germany by air in the past. If you reside in another country and wish to receive your order smoothly, we recommend arranging a delivery address in France or Germany, as this will allow us to ship by air. Additionally, please note that shipping to Italy is extremely difficult due to strict import regulations on swords. Shipping to the United States is also currently difficult due to the ongoing tariff situation.

Please be aware that if no means of transportation can be found to your desired destination country, we will unfortunately have no choice but to cancel the order.

Please also note that the exportation of swords to China and Russia is strictly prohibited in all cases. Furthermore, we are unable to ship to any country where the import of art swords is prohibited by law. Please ensure you have checked the regulations in your own country before placing a bid.

Thank you for your understanding.