AS25452 Tanto:Mumei (attributed to Enju Kuniyasu)(NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token)

Ordering number:AS25452

Tanto: Black Lacquered Saya with Koshirae (NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token)

Signature: Mumei (attributed to Enju Kuniyasu)

We divide 4 sections for each sword as Saijyo Saku, Jyojyo Saku, Jyo Saku and Regular Saku.
This work is ranked as Jyojyo Saku among the unsigned works attributed to Enju Kuniyasu.
Habaki: Single-layered gold
Blade Length: 20.8 cm (8.19 in)
Curvature: None
Mekugi Holes: 2
Width at Base (Motohaba): 1.83 cm (0.72 in)
Thickness of rim (Kasane): 0.35 cm (0.14 in)
Era: Late Kamakura period (late 13th to early 14th century)
Shape: A slightly small-sized tanto in healthy condition.
Jigane: Well-forged ko-itame hada with a tight grain and fine surface. The jigane clearly shows chikei and displays utsuri. A beautiful forging surface.
Hamon: Nioi-deki with straight suguha mixed with notare, showing strong activity of kinsuji. Boshi turns back in a small round (komaru).

Features: Enju Kuniyasu was a swordsmith from Higo, known as a mid-period smith (chuko tosho) active around 1329 (Gen-toku era).
He was considered a skilled maker (Jyo Saku) and is believed to be the son of Enju Kunimura.
His works include both tanto and tachi.

Koshirae: Aikuchi-style koshirae with brown lacquered saya.

Aoi Art’s Comment: Recommended as a suitable tanto for a bridal gift.

NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token
AoiArt estimation paper: Whole Oshigata