AS24408 Katana:Mumei (attributed to Jumyo)(NBTHK Hozon Token)

Katana in Shirasaya with Koshirae(NBTHK Hozon Token)

Signature:Mumei (attributed to Jumyo)
無銘（寿命）

We divide 4 sections for each sword as Saijyo Saku, Jyojyo Saku, Jyo Saku, and Regular Saku.
This sword is ranked as Jyo Saku for Mumei (Jumyo).
Habaki:Single-layered gold foil Habaki
Blade Length: 2 shaku 3 sun 7 bu (approximately 71.8 cm / 28.27 in)
Curvature: 6 bu (approximately 1.82 cm / 0.72 in)
Mekugi Hole: 2
Width at Base (Motohaba): 3.02 cm (1.19 in)
Width at Tip (Sakihaba): 2.09 cm (0.82 in)
Thickness (Kasane): 0.71 cm (0.28 in)
Sword Weight: 705 g
Era: Late Muromachi period
Shape:A well-balanced sword with a slightly wider body, deep curvature, and an elongated Fukura (point).
Jigane (Steel Surface):Well-forged Itame-hada, showing clear wood grain patterns with Jikei (dark spots of steel grain).
Hamon:A Nie-deki Gunome Midare with relatively low valleys, well-formed.
The Boshi follows the blade’s shape and enters in a midare pattern.

Features:This sword was appraised at the Sword Museum and attributed to Mumei (Jumyo).
Jumyo blades have long been associated with the meaning of “longevity,” making them highly regarded as auspicious gifts.
In the Muromachi period, when the average lifespan was around 40 years, the significance of “longevity” held a very different weight than it does today.
The sword has excellent polishing, fine craftsmanship, and a well-proportioned shape, giving it a substantial and powerful presence.
It is a highly recommended piece.

Koshirae (Mountings):
Tsuba:A nearly square-shaped iron tsuba depicting mountains, bridges, and figures crossing them, adorned with gold inlay.
(A style known as Wakashiba Tsuba)
Fuchikashira:Shakudo base with gold and silver inlays depicting waves.
Signed: Taizan Kyoju
Saya (Scabbard):A gray lacquered scabbard with black patterns.
Menuki:One side features a pine tree in high relief, while the reverse side depicts an object resembling a raft, both elaborately carved with gold accents.

Aoi Art’s Comment:This sword is likely a Muromachi period Jumyo blade.
The Saya-gaki (inscription on the scabbard) is somewhat unclear and appears to be a later addition, but it will be left as it is.
The Koshirae is beautifully crafted, making this sword highly recommended.

NBTHK Hozon Token
Aoi Art Estimation Paper
Whole Oshigata