Hello,

This piece is a traditional katana — the iconic long sword of the samurai — measuring approximately 28 inches in blade length and 13 inches in handle length. The fittings include an oval-shaped tsuba (handguard) featuring a relief-carved motif, possibly of a scorpion and ox or mythological figures, rendered in a style typical of late Edo to Meiji period swords (circa 19th century). The tsuba appears to be made of a darkened iron or soft metal alloy, though the exact materials are unconfirmed.

The blade shows visible age and patination, with signs of oxidation in some areas, indicating that it has not undergone recent polishing. No signature (mei) is evident from the provided images, and the nakago (tang) was not fully revealed, so attribution to a particular smith or school is not currently possible.

The koshirae (mountings) appear original or period-matched and are functional but show expected wear for an antique piece. The blade curvature (sori) is modest, suggesting a later Edo to early Meiji production rather than a high-koshizori (deeply curved) early piece.

Historical Context:
The katana, developed during the Kamakura period and perfected in the Muromachi and Edo periods, represents the pinnacle of Japanese sword craftsmanship. By the Edo period (1603–1868), with warfare less common, swords were often made more for ceremonial, social, and personal prestige reasons. Swords from the Meiji era (1868–1912) onward were also made for military use and export, sometimes using traditional methods, sometimes mass-produced.

The tsuba’s decorative, almost playful subject matter suggests this katana may have belonged to a civilian samurai or a high-ranking merchant allowed to carry a sword under special permission.