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This item is a 17th-century Wakizashi sword from Japan, authenticated by the NTHK (Nihon Token Hozon Kai) with a certificate. The blade, measuring 33 inches long, was crafted by Settsu ju Fujiwara Tadayuki, the first generation of swordsmiths under this name. The blade and its certification underscore its historical significance, connecting it to the Edo period, a time when the samurai class flourished under a rigid social structure and code of conduct known as bushido. Wakizashi swords were an integral part of the samurai’s armament, often paired with the katana to form the daisho set, symbolizing the samurai’s honor and soul.

Historically, the Edo period (1603-1868) marked a time of relative peace under the Tokugawa shogunate, leading to a decline in large-scale warfare but an increase in the cultural and artistic refinement of swords. The Wakizashi, being shorter than the katana, was used in confined spaces and for close-quarter combat, making it a practical weapon for the samurai during this era. The intricate craftsmanship and the reputation of the swordsmith contribute significantly to its value.