Sword
01 October 2023
Description

Purchased in 1989 in Iwakuni Japan at an antique store. There is Kanji on the tang but I can't make it out.

Dimensions

1" x 21"

Acquired from
Other
For sale
Yes
Answered within 3 days
By David U.
Oct 04, 09:35 UTC
Fair Market Value
$400 - $800 USD
Insurance Value $0 USD
What does this mean?

Hello,

Thank you for choosing Mearto for your online appraisal.

Based on the images and information you provided, this item is:

A Wakizashi in Shirasaya from Edo period. The Edo period, which spanned from the early 17th century to the mid-19th century, was marked by relative peace and stability in Japan, allowing for the refinement of sword-making techniques. The katana is a traditional Japanese longsword characterized by its distinctive curved blade, circular or squared guard (tsuba), and long grip. The wakizashi is a shorter sword often worn together with the katana, forming the daisho, a symbol of a samurai's social status.

The blade exhibits a fine sashikomi polish. Very good condition

Shirasaya refers to a plain wooden storage scabbard and handle, which was typically used for long-term storage to protect the blade from environmental factors such as humidity. These shirasaya-mounted swords were often used during the Edo period when peace led to a decrease in actual combat, and swords became more symbolic and works of art than functional weapons.

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