AS25118 Tanto: Mumei (Aizu Ju Kanesada) (NBTHK Hozon Token)

Tanto: In Shirasaya, with Koshirae (NBTHK Hozon Token)

Signature: Mumei (Aizu Ju Kanesada)
無銘(会津住兼定)

We divide 4 sections for each sword as Saijyo Saku, Jyojyo Saku, Jyo Saku and Regular Saku.
This piece is ranked as Jyojyo Saku (Upper-Upper Grade) among works attributed to Mumei (Aizu Ju Kanesada).
Habaki: Single-layered silver
Blade Length: 23.4 cm (9.21 in)
Curvature: 0 cm (0 in)
Mekugi Hole: 1
Width at Base (Motohaba): 2.42 cm (0.95 in)
Thickness of rim (Kasane): 0.69 cm (0.27 in)
Sword Weight: 165 grams
Era: Late Edo period (around mid-19th century)
Shape: Thick kasane with clearly visible yasurime.
Jigane: Ko-itame hada clearly visible.
Hamon: Nie-deki gunome-midare. The boshi is pointed with a strong kaeri.

Features:　Although unsigned, this tanto is attributed to Kanesada of the Shinshinto period from Aizu, based on the style of yasurime and other features.

Koshirae:
Tsuba: Plain copper tsuba with protruding rim and gold iroe (color inlay).
Menuki: Flower motif with gold and silver iroe.
Fuchikashira: Shakudo base with various decorative patterns.
Saya (Scabbard): Black kawari-nuri (irregular lacquered) saya.

Aoi Art’s Comment: This is a tanto by Mumei Aizu Kanesada.
The unfortunate aspect is that it is unsigned.
It is regrettable that, despite the carefully crafted yasurime, it remains mumei.
Based on the nakago condition, it is believed to be the work of the 11th generation.
The blade has a nie-deki gunome-midare hamon with a deep nioiguchi, and a deep return at the pointed boshi.
It is a thick and robust work in gunome-midare.
One question that arises is why such a well-made sword remains unsigned—this is quite puzzling.
In any case, this is a splendid piece.
The 11th generation Izumi no Kami Kanesada is a highly popular swordsmith.
Especially among collectors of Aizu smiths, his work is considered highly desirable.
We highly recommend this piece.

NBTHK Hozon Token
Aoi Art estimation paper: Whole Oshigata
*Please note: The price does not include shipping fees.