AS25215 Wakizashi:Soshu ju Tsunahiro(NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token)

Wakizashi in Shirasaya (NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token)

Signature: Soshu ju Tsunahiro
相州住綱広

Sue-Koto: Jyo Saku : Sagami
We divide 4 sections for each sword as Saijyo Saku, Jyojyo Saku, Jyo Saku and Regular Saku.
This piece is ranked as Jyojyo Saku (superior work) among the works of Soshu ju Tsunahiro.

Habaki: Single-layered gold-covered habaki
Blade Length: 40.3 cm (15.87 in)
Curvature: 1.1 cm (0.43 in)
Mekugi Hole: 1
Width at Base (Motohaba): 3.04 cm (1.20 in)
Thickness (Kasane): 0.61 cm (0.24 in)
Sword Weight: 315 g
Era: Muromachi period, around the Tenbun era (1532–1555)
Shape: The blade is wide, with mitsumune, and has a slightly rounded curvature.
The omote is carved with a suken and dokko, while the ura bears the inscription “Hachiman Daibosatsu.”
It has one mekugi-ana, a relatively deep curvature, and shows characteristics typical of the Soshu tradition.
Jigane: Hamon: Nie-based suguha with a mix of notare, forming fine ko-gunome.
The boshi is small and rounded with a deep turn-back.
Utsuri appears in several areas.

Features: Soshu ju Tsunahiro was a swordsmith of the Soshu tradition based in Sagami province.
He was known for carving engravings into the blade, and this sword also features such detailed carvings.

Historical Context: The Tenbun era (1532–1555) was a Japanese era during the late Muromachi period, under the reign of Emperor Gonara.
It marked the decline of the Ashikaga shogunate and the transition toward the Warring States period.
Notable events such as the Tenbun Hokke Disturbance occurred during this time.
This wakizashi is in healthy condition with a single mekugi-ana.
It is a highly recommended piece.

NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token Certificate
Aoi Art estimation paper: Whole Oshigata