AS24594 Katana:Osaka Ju Gassan Sadakatsu Kin Saku (Kao) Commemorating the 2600th Year of the Imperial Era (Kōki 2600 = 1940)(NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token)

Katana in Shirasaya(NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token)

Signature: Osaka Ju Gassan Sadakatsu Kin Saku (Kao)
Inscription: Commemorating the 2600th Year of the Imperial Era (Kōki 2600 = 1940)
大阪住月山貞勝謹作(花押)
皇紀二千六百年記念

We divide 4 sections for each sword as Saijyo Saku, Jyojyo Saku, Jyo Saku and Regular Saku.
This work is ranked as Jyojyo Saku, a superior-grade piece by Gassan Sadakatsu.
Habaki: Single-layered Habaki (possibly solid gold)
Blade Length: 66.4 cm (26.14 in)
Curvature: 1.5 cm (0.59 in)
Mekugi Hole: 1
Width at Base (Motohaba): 3.06 cm (1.20 in)
Width at Tip: 1.98 cm (0.78 in)
Thickness of Rim (Kasane): 0.72 cm (0.28 in)
Sword Weight: 785 g
Era: Showa 15 (1940)
Shape:The blade has a strong width and thickness, with the original edge (ubuha) clearly visible.
It is a healthy and robust piece.
Jigane:The blade shows the distinctive ayasugi-hada, a flowing pattern unique to the Gassan school.
Hamon:The hamon combines gunome-midare with ayasugi elements, creating a highly dynamic visual impression.

Features: Gassan Sadakatsu was a master swordsmith representing the Taisho and early Showa periods.
Born in Meiji 2 (1869) as the son of the first-generation Gassan Sadakazu, he crafted swords for major institutions such as the Ise Grand Shrine, showcasing his high level of skill.
He trained many distinguished smiths, including two Living National Treasures: the second-generation Gassan Sadakazu and Takahashi Sadatsugu.
Sadakatsu mastered various traditions including Soshu-den, Bizen-den, and Yamato-den, reflecting his exceptional technical abilities.
This blade features the ayasugi-hada, a hallmark of the Gassan school passed down since the Kamakura period.
He passed away in Showa 18 (1943) at the age of 74.

Aoi Art’s Comment:The jigane is well-forged, and the hamon combines gunome-midare with ayasugi, resulting in a beautifully polished and elegant work.

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