AS23535 Katana：(Gold inlay) Norimitsu (Kashu)(NBTHK Hozon Token)

Katana in Shirasaya with Koshirae (NBTHK Hozon Token)

Signature: (Gold inlay) Norimitsu (Kashu)
(金象嵌銘)則光(加州)

We divide 4 sections for each sword as Saijyo Saku, Jyojyo Saku, Jyo Saku, and Regular Saku.
This sword is ranked as Jyo Saku.
Habaki: Single copper Habaki
Blade Length: 69.5 cm (27.36 in)
Curvature: 2.2 cm (0.87 in)
Mekugi Hole: 2
Width at Base (Motohaba): 2.75 cm (1.08 in)
Width at Tip (Sakihaba): 1.89 cm (0.74 in)
Thickness of rim (Kasane): 0.68 cm (0.27 in)
Sword Weight: 685 g
Era: Muromachi period, around 1469
Shape: This piece has a wide and thick shape, with deep curvature and an elegantly extended Kissaki.
Jigane: Ko-itame-hada well-forged, approaching a plain surface appearance, with visible Utsuri.
Hamon: Nie-based gunome-midare with small Ashi, Hotsure activities, and fine Kinsuji activities.
Boshi: Rounded return.

Features: Norimitsu is said to have lived in the Kamakura or Nanbokucho period, but many of his remaining works date from around Eikyo (1429), with many highly valued works from around Kansho.
This sword is believed to be the work of about the 6th generation Norimitsu.

Koshirae: Han-tachi Koshirae
Tsuba: Openwork carving of cranes on iron plate.
Menuki: Design of dragons.
Fuchikashira and Kojiri: Made of silver.

Aoi Art’s Comment:　This piece bears the signature “Norimitsu” in Kin Zogan, which is precious.
It measures nearly 2 shaku 3 sun (approx. 69.7 cm), has a deep curvature, and exhibits a graceful shape.
The blade pattern can be seen on the Nakago, suggesting that there was a Suriage (shortening).
It is a highly recommended piece that we would like to introduce to everyone.

Historical Background:　During the Muromachi period, wars became more intense, and bows, naginatas, and spears became the main weapons.
Later, firearms were introduced.
Particularly, spears were actively used.

NBTHK Hozon Token
AoiArt estimation paper
Whole Oshigata