Lot 31 SHINTO WAKIZASHI IN BLACK KOSHIRAE

A shinto Wakizashi in black koshirae.

Japan, 18th/19th century (Second half Edo period, Early Meiji period)
Total Length: 58 cm

Blade:
Length: 38,4 cm
Curvature: 1,2 cm
Bottom width: 2,3 cm
Width at tip: 1,7 cm
Shape: Shinogi-zukuri, iori-mune and a ko-kissaki (small tip)
Forging pattern: Ko-itame mixed with some small mokume grain
Hamon: slightly undulating straight line in nioi-deki
Tip: Kaen
Nakago: original, ending in ha-agari-kurijiri, decorated with kessho yasurime, one mekugi-ana and unsigned (mumei)

The blade comes with a 19th century koshirae with a black lacquered scabbard, adorned with a black lacquer kozuka (rare). The handle covered in ray-skin, wrapped with black/brown binding, two menuki in the shape of a tachi and saihai (commandor’s baton). The shakudo Nanako fuchi-kashira (pommels) with scholars’ attributes. A silvered habaki and an iron kurikomi mokko gata tsuba decorated with amida-yasurime, meaning that the surface of the guard is striated with lines radiating outwards from the centre, symbolising buddha’s aura.

The sword is in a fair/good condition, but would benefit from a new polish. The blade showing traces of old rust and some scratches, the scabbard with scratches and minor dents. Please look at the photos for a clear condition reference.