AS24490 Katana：Echigo Kuni Ju Imai Sadaroku

Katana in Shirasaya

Signature: Echigo Kuni Ju Imai Sadaroku
Koki 2600 Nen Akizuki Hi (Autumn Day, 1940)
越後国住今井貞六造
皇紀二千六百年秋月日

We divide swords into four categories based on the craftsmanship of the swordsmith: Saijyo Saku, Jyojyo Saku, Jyo Saku, and Regular Saku.
This work is ranked as Jyo Saku for Imai Sadaroku’s craftsmanship.
Habaki: copper habaki with silver iroe.
Blade Length: 62.2 cm (24.49 in)
Curvature: 1.7 cm (0.67 in)
Mekugi Hole: 1
Width at Base (Motohaba): 3.3 cm (1.30 in)
Width at Tip (Sakihaba): 2.2 cm (0.87 in)
Thickness of Rim (Kasane): 0.68 cm (0.27 in)
Sword Weight: 740 g (1.63 lbs)
Era:1940
Shape:Wide blade with thick kasane, moderately deep curvature, and extended kissaki.
This is a well-preserved piece with substantial ubu-ha remaining.
Jigane:Features a vivid Masame-hada (Ayasugi-hada) pattern.
Hamon:Brightly tempered Nie-deki in a wavy Gunome-midare pattern.

Features: Imai Sadaroku was a swordsmith from Niigata Prefecture, also known as Imai Yaichi.
During wartime, he served as an officially appointed army swordsmith, holding the title of Honorary Master of the National Sword Academy.
He was awarded gold and silver medals in the New Sword Honorary Exhibition and was a disciple of Amata Akishige.

Aoi Art’s Comment: Swordsmith Imai Sadaroku is renowned for creating swords and tantō for his compatriot, Admiral Yamamoto Isoroku of the Imperial Navy.
He crafted commemorative swords for Admiral Yamamoto’s acquaintances.
Sadahiro was highly skilled at reproducing classical sword styles and collaborated extensively with the Living National Treasure, swordsmith Amata Akishige.
This newly surfaced sword demonstrates a unique Ayasugi-hada pattern, akin to the works of Gassan Sadakatsu and Sadakazu.
It exhibits a craftsmanship that rivals even Gassan Sadakatsu and Sadakazu, showcasing Ayasugi-hada on both sides of the blade.
Polishing service available separately for an additional ¥30,000.

Aoi Art Estimation Paper
Whole Oshigata
*Please note: The price does not include shipping fees.