AS25692 Wakizashi: Fujimasa (Sengo).(NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token)

Ordering Number: AS25692

Wakizashi in Shirasaya (NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token)

Signature: Fujimasa (Sengo).

Sue-Koto: Jyo Saku: Ise.
(We divide 4 sections for each sword as Saijyo Saku, Jyojyo Saku, Jyo Saku and Regular Saku).
The workmanship of this piece is ranked as Jyojyo Saku for Fujimasa (Sengo).

Habaki: Double-layer gold-foiled habaki.
Blade Length: 30.3 cm (11.93 in).
Curvature: 0.3 cm (0.12 in).
Mekugi Hole: 2.
Width at Base (Motohaba): 2.73 cm (1.07 in).
Thickness of rim (Kasane): 0.45 cm (0.18 in).
Sword Weight: 155 g.

Shape: The shape of the nakago closely resembles that of Muramasa.

Jigane: Well-forged ko-itame hada, clearly visible and well refined.

Hamon: The hamon on both sides is identical and resembles the style seen in Muramasa works. The omote and ura are the same, with a well-aligned nioiguchi. The boshi is ko-maru with a deep return.

Features: This is a very rare tanto. Judging only from the hamon, it could easily be mistaken for a Muramasa work. It bears the signature “Fujimasa,” and the Tokubetsu Hozon appraisal attributes it to the Sengo school. The signature is also very similar to Muramasa, which makes this piece particularly striking. It may also be considered that only one character was altered from a typical Muramasa signature, which is sometimes seen. This signature belongs to the lineage of Sengo Muramasa, and according to Fujishiro’s reference book, the smith is described as either a child or a disciple of Muramasa. The sayagaki notes that it is “a playful signature of Muramasa,” however the inscription clearly reads “Fujimasa,” and the workmanship itself appears essentially identical to Muramasa’s style.

NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token Certificate.
AoiArt estimation paper: Whole Oshigata