* Image is for illustrative purposes only.Tachi Signed "Tomonari-saku" (Itsukushima Shrine)
太刀 銘友成作（厳島神社蔵）
Also known as: Itsukushima Tomonari; Tomonari Tachi Dedicated by the Taira Clan
Description
Overview
The National Treasure tachi signed "Tomonari-saku," held by Itsukushima Shrine, is attributed to Tomonari, a master smith of the Ko-Bizen school. Several signed Tomonari works survive, but stylistic differences suggest multiple generations bore the same name from the late Heian into the early Kamakura period; which generation produced this blade remains undetermined.
Designation
Designated an Important Cultural Property (under the pre-war law) on April 17, 1914, and re-designated a National Treasure under the postwar Cultural Properties Protection Law on November 22, 1952.
Style
Despite having been shortened (suriage), the blade retains a well-balanced tachi shape. The steel shows itame mixed with mokume, and the hamon is a suguha base with small midare, reflecting the restrained elegance typical of the Ko-Bizen school.
Provenance
Two traditions exist regarding its dedication to Itsukushima Shrine: one holds it was worn by the Taira general Taira no Noritsune, the other that it was donated by Taira no Munemori. Neither account has been confirmed. Itsukushima Shrine, revered by the Taira clan as their tutelary shrine, preserves numerous other National Treasure swords and ancient regalia.
Current Location
The blade remains in the shrine's treasury and is shown to the public on special exhibition occasions.