AS25475 Katana: Monju Shigekuni(1678)(NBTHK Hozon Token)

Katana in Shirasaya (NBTHK Hozon Token)

Signature:
Monju Shigekuni 文殊重国
Enpo 6 Nen 8 Gatsu 延宝六歳八月 (1678)

We divide 4 sections for each sword as Saijyo Saku, Jyojyo Saku, Jyo Saku and Regular Saku.
This blade is ranked as Jyojyo Saku for the work of Monju Shigekuni (3rd Generation).

Habaki: silver-wrapped single habaki
Blade Length: 67.2 cm (26.46 in)
Curvature: cm
Mekugi Hole: 2 holes (1 filled)
Width at Base (Motohaba): 2.89 cm (1.14 in)
Width at Yokote: 1.83 cm (0.72 in)
Thickness of rim (Kasane): 0.64 cm (0.25 in)
Era: the early Edo period, 1678

Shape: slightly thin blade with small curveture with about 3cm Suriage and Machiokuri.
Jigane: Koitame hada partially mixed with Masame.
Hamon: Nie-base Gunome and pointed Gunome and Notare with thick Nioikuchi.

Features:
The 1st generation of Shigekuni was employed by Tokugawa Ieyasu and later moved to Kishu, following Tokugawa Yorinobu. He and his descendants served as retained swordsmiths for the Kishu Tokugawa family for generations. This blade is thought to be the work of the 3rd generation. It displays a different style from that of the 1st and 2nd generations. Although it has been slightly shortened (suriage), the hamon is bright and clear with a deep nioiguchi, showing excellent craftsmanship.

NBTHK Hozon Certificate
Aoi Art estimation paper: Whole Oshigata