【Summary】 This katana was crafted by Fujiwara Takada(藤原高田), a smith from the renowned Takada school in Bungo Province, celebrated for producing blades of exceptional practical utility. True to the Fujiwara Takada tradition, this sword embodies "Shitsujitsu-Goken(質実剛健)"—a philosophy of sturdy, no-nonsense craftsmanship designed for actual combat. Despite its rugged heritage, the blade is in excellent state of preservation. The hamon (temper line) is vividly clear and beautifully defined, making it a magnificent piece for appreciative viewing and study. The Koshirae (mountings) are equally impressive. From the Tsuba (guard) to the Fuchi-Kashira (hilt fittings), every detail has been meticulously crafted with exquisite precision. The overall balance and completeness of the piece are outstanding. This is, in every sense, a classic masterpiece that radiates the "royal road" of Japanese sword charisma. This sword has been authenticated and designated as Hozon Token (Worthy of Preservation) by the NBTHK (Nihon Bijutsu Token Hozon Kyokai), the most prestigious and authoritative organization in the world of Japanese swords. This certification guarantees its quality and historical integrity. The original NBTHK certificate is included in this set. 【About Fujiwara Takada (藤原高田)】 [Historical Background] The Fujiwara Takada school was a group of swordsmiths based in Takada, Bungo Province (modern Ōita Prefecture), active from the late Muromachi to early Edo periods. To distinguish themselves from the earlier Taira-Takada (Koto period), they began signing their works with the prestigious surname Fujiwara during the Shinto era. The lineage traces back to Fujiwara Tomoyuki in the Nanbokuchō period and continued across generations. Takada blades emphasized durability and cutting performance over flamboyant decoration, making them highly valued by warriors. They maintained a close relationship with the Ōtomo clan, and during the transition from the Sengoku to Edo period, their swords spread widely across Japan, enjoying great popularity. [Lineage and Prosperity] Although the school declined during the political upheavals of the late Sengoku to early Edo periods, sword-making flourished again under the patronage of the Hosokawa clan during the Kan’ei era (1624–). Thereafter, the Fujiwara Takada school prospered throughout the Edo period. Smiths such as Ujinobu, Tsuneyuki, Yukinaga, Tadayuki, and Saneyuki are well known among its lineage. [Appeal and Evaluation] Fujiwara Takada swords were treasured for their durability, practical strength, and balance, rather than flamboyance. Highly valued by warriors in the Sengoku era, they continue to be admired today for their robust construction, refined hamon, and strong regional identity, making them popular among collectors worldwide. 【Koshirae】 The quality of the Koshirae (mountings) is exceptional, elevating the overall value of this Japanese sword set through a level of artisanal skill reflected in every element, from the precise, traditional wrap of the Tsuka (hilt) to the intricate detail of the Fuchi-Kashira (hilt fittings). A standout feature is the Tsuba (guard), which is adorned with a meticulously crafted snail design; in Japanese culture, the snail is a revered symbol of "Futaiten" (不退転, unwavering resolve) because it only moves forward and never retreats, serving as an emblem of courage and persistence highly favored by the samurai. Combined with the Fujiwara Takada blade—a sword famously specialized for actual combat—this entire set embodies a powerful theme of "the determination to advance without fear," making it not merely a weapon, but a complete masterpiece that resonates with the indomitable spirit of the samurai. 【size】 Koshirae Full length: 97.0cm Total Length : 75.7cm Blade length: 61.8cm Motohaba : 3.0cm Motokasane : 0.7cm Weight : 0.7kg Sori: 1.1cm 【Shipping costs】 Free shipping to all countries. 【Attention before bid】 Shipping is primarily handled by air freight. We have recent experience shipping to Germany and France. If air freight is not available for your country, we will ship by sea, which takes approximately 2–3 months. We have recent experience shipping by sea to the Netherlands and Slovakia. 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. Please note that due to current regulations, we are unable to ship to Italy, the United States, Russia, or China. Additionally, we cannot ship to any country where the import of swords is prohibited. Please confirm the regulations in your country before placing a bid. Thank you for your understanding.