Details
PROPERTY FROM A DISTINGUISHED PRIVATE COLLECTION

A Yamashiro uchigatana
Attributed to Chikushi Ryokai, Muromachi period (early 15th century)
Sugata: [configuration]: hon-zukuri, iori-mune, fumbari, slender deep curve with saki-zori, ko-kissaki
Kitae: [forging pattern]: itame nagare, bo-utsuri close to nioi-guchi
Hamon [tempering pattern]: suguha-cho of ko-nie
Boshi [tip]: ko-maru
Nakago [tang]: file marks indistinguishable, two mekugi-ana, kuri-jhiri
Habaki [collar]: double silver-clad
Horimono [carving]: bohi kakudome, yokote-agaru,
Nagasa [length of blade]: 57.5cm long
Koshirae [mounting]: katana mounting, black lacquered scabbard, iron pierced mokko tsuba with leaves and flowers in shinchu inlay, Momoyama period, fuchi-kashira shakudo ishimeji with dragons in high relief signed Kuniyasu, gilt details, menuki of shakudo flowers with gilt details, 89.5 cm

Accompanied by a certificate of registration as a Hozon Token (sword worthy of preservation) no. 375002 issued by the Nihon Bijutsu Token Hozon Kyokai (Society for the Preservation of the Japan Art Sword) on 31st August 2006
Brought to you by

Lot Essay

At the end of the 14th century Ryokai of Yamashiro (Kyoto), descended from Rai Kunitoshi, moved to Chikushi in Buzen province . The school is said to have been descended from Rai Kunitoshi, and it is also suggested that the first Ryokai was Kunitoshi. From the shape

Click here to watch vintage 1930s film of the making of a samurai sword.

Related Articles

Sorry, we are unable to display this content. Please check your connection.

More from
Samurai Swords and Armour: A Refined Art
Place your bid Condition report

A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.

I confirm that I have read this Important Notice regarding Condition Reports and agree to its terms. View Condition Report