Katana - Steel, Iron (cast/wrought) - Japan
03
days
23
hours
15
minutes
08
seconds
Current bid
€ 630
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 1,400 - € 1,600
 | €630 | |
|---|---|---|
 | €472 | |
 | €452 | |
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Description from the seller
Japanese Katana by Yoshikane – Gendai-tō/Showa-tō in Guntō-koshirae (Showa period)
This rare Japanese katana is an impressive example of a gendai-tō (現代刀), traditionally used in the Showa period (昭和時代) by swordsmith Yoshikane (吉包). Gendai blades like these were made in the classic manner, representing the craftsmen's commitment to their trade expressed in an era of mass production. Attribution is subject to authentication.
Historical and artistic history
Yoshikane is regarded among the gendai-tōkai. Their work was best suited for officers, but you should be aware of the artist's experience. This sword here is a beautiful example of that.
Signature
The tang (nakago) bears the characters 吉包 (Yoshikane), a tradition illustrated on this artifact.
Blade features & Polishing
This sword is professionally polished (Kezuri-mei - Kaki-han), probably by a polisher in Japan around 1930-1945, from a late restoration in the 1960s or 1970s, which beautifully brings out the intricate details.
Hamon
Elegant togari/gunome-midare pattern with subtle chōji elements; deep tempering visible at the tip.
Classic koshizori curvature, showing technical mastery and aesthetic balance.
Condition
You may see some reddish spots on the outer parts that catch light; you may want to be concerned about them. The edge is extremely sharp and the sword is in excellent condition.
Specifications - Feature Dimensions
Total length (with nakago) 86.4 cm
Blade length (nagasa) 65.7 cm
Length in koshirae 100.5 cm
Sori (curvature) ca. 1.7 cm
Nakago (tang) ca. 18 cm
Motogasaan (thickness base) 7 mm
Motohaba (width base) 3.2 cm
Weight 1360 g
Mounts – Guntō-koshirae
It was mounted in an original military gunto-koshirae, now in Japan as an officer's piece from World War II:
The wooden saya is covered with leather, a hallmark of active use and field deployment.
From the moment it was worn, it was carried in the field and by the military.
Parts of the tsuka-ito (wrap around the handle) have come loose and must be re-wrapped (tsukamaki).
Japanese Katana by Yoshikane – Gendai-tō/Showa-tō in Guntō-koshirae (Showa period)
This rare Japanese katana is an impressive example of a gendai-tō (現代刀), traditionally used in the Showa period (昭和時代) by swordsmith Yoshikane (吉包). Gendai blades like these were made in the classic manner, representing the craftsmen's commitment to their trade expressed in an era of mass production. Attribution is subject to authentication.
Historical and artistic history
Yoshikane is regarded among the gendai-tōkai. Their work was best suited for officers, but you should be aware of the artist's experience. This sword here is a beautiful example of that.
Signature
The tang (nakago) bears the characters 吉包 (Yoshikane), a tradition illustrated on this artifact.
Blade features & Polishing
This sword is professionally polished (Kezuri-mei - Kaki-han), probably by a polisher in Japan around 1930-1945, from a late restoration in the 1960s or 1970s, which beautifully brings out the intricate details.
Hamon
Elegant togari/gunome-midare pattern with subtle chōji elements; deep tempering visible at the tip.
Classic koshizori curvature, showing technical mastery and aesthetic balance.
Condition
You may see some reddish spots on the outer parts that catch light; you may want to be concerned about them. The edge is extremely sharp and the sword is in excellent condition.
Specifications - Feature Dimensions
Total length (with nakago) 86.4 cm
Blade length (nagasa) 65.7 cm
Length in koshirae 100.5 cm
Sori (curvature) ca. 1.7 cm
Nakago (tang) ca. 18 cm
Motogasaan (thickness base) 7 mm
Motohaba (width base) 3.2 cm
Weight 1360 g
Mounts – Guntō-koshirae
It was mounted in an original military gunto-koshirae, now in Japan as an officer's piece from World War II:
The wooden saya is covered with leather, a hallmark of active use and field deployment.
From the moment it was worn, it was carried in the field and by the military.
Parts of the tsuka-ito (wrap around the handle) have come loose and must be re-wrapped (tsukamaki).
Details
Era
1900-2000
Manufacturer/brand
Handgesmeed
Country of origin
Japan
Material
Iron (cast/wrought), Steel
Condition
Good
Style
Showa Island
Height
65.7 cm
Width
3.4 cm
Accessories Included
Holster
Overall Length
100 cm
Estimated period
1930-1940
Sold by
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: Decorative and Martial Arts Use Only This item is offered for auction with the understanding that it is intended exclusively for decorative purposes or martial arts practice. By participating in this auction, you agree to: Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies. Ensure that your use of this item is consistent with the stated purposes. Please note that this item has not been inspected by Catawiki for safety or functionality. Catawiki does not condone illegal activities and is not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this item.
Disclaimer: Decorative and Martial Arts Use Only This item is offered for auction with the understanding that it is intended exclusively for decorative purposes or martial arts practice. By participating in this auction, you agree to: Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and policies. Ensure that your use of this item is consistent with the stated purposes. Please note that this item has not been inspected by Catawiki for safety or functionality. Catawiki does not condone illegal activities and is not responsible for any damage or injury resulting from the use or misuse of this item.
