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Aperçus sur les connaissances et la culture du sabre japonais
Miyairi Yukihira (1913-1977) of Sakaki, Nagano Prefecture, maintained authentic tamahagane forging throughout the military sword era. This article traces his life from wartime military sword commissions to his posthumous Living National Treasure designation and his enduring legacy in the nihonto world.
The four-lobed mokko-gata (wood-melon shape) is among the most beloved and enduring tsuba forms from the Muromachi period to the present. This article explores mokko origins, variations across schools, artistic significance, and key examples for appreciation.
The Momoyama period (late 16th to early 17th centuries) brought revolutionary change to sword fittings, as warlords' desire for self-expression met new materials from Nanban trade. This article examines the Umetada school's emergence and the aesthetic significance of their exquisite metalwork tsuba.
What is the kazuuchi-tou? This article examines historical sources to explore the explosion in sword demand triggered by warfare following the Ōnin War, the reality and evaluation of mass-produced swords, the rise of regional sword makers, and the intense competitive rivalry between Bizen and Yamashiro production centers.
Nanako punching creates uniform fields of tiny circular impressions across metal surfaces, producing a fish-roe-like ground texture that is one of the most distinctive background treatments in Japanese sword fitting art. This article explains the technique's principles, types, identification, and appreciation.
The Nanban trade of the 16th-17th centuries introduced foreign influence into Japanese sword guard design, creating the distinctive genre of nanban tsuba. This article examines the diverse forms — imported iron guards, foreign-motif designs, and armor-inspired shapes — and the historical context that produced them.
The century-long conflicts of the Nanbokucho and Muromachi periods created explosive demand for tsuba and gave rise to professional tsuba makers. This article traces the development of sophisticated openwork techniques and the emergence of the nationwide Shoami school.
The three great Nara kinko masters — Sugiura Joi, Nara Toshinaga, and Tsuchiya Yasuchika — elevated sword fittings to individual artistic expression in the mid-Edo period. This article details their contrasting styles, representative works, and lasting influence on Japanese metalworking.
Sword certificates directly affect the market value of nihonto. This article compares major appraisal bodies — NBTHK (with its Hozon, Tokubetsu Hozon, Juyo, and Tokubetsu Juyo ranks), the Hon'ami family tradition, and others — covering their roles, fees, and credibility.
Transitioning from nihonto collector to professional dealer requires clearing four hurdles: antique dealer licensing, appraisal expertise, sourcing networks, and sales channels. This roadmap — drawn from the experiences of successful transitioners — guides enthusiasts through every step.
In 2026, the convergence of yen depreciation and maturing digital marketplaces has created unprecedented opportunities for Japanese sword exports. This article compares leading platforms, examines the purchasing power surge among overseas buyers, and outlines the import regulations shaping each key market.
An expert analysis of Japanese swords as alternative investments, examining price trends, authentication certificates, storage costs, and liquidity risks for the discerning collector in 2026.
