Hi John
Don't know if you are aware that if you take the peg out and remove the grip there can sometimes be a makers mark there !
Beautiful looking blade
The sword has raised a bit of interest here at work, even though no one could read the inscription. Discussion points were:
The inscription could also be in Chinese and is most definitely not modern. Probably a name (maker, workshop?) followed by a year. Most likely not "Made in China"
A katana and its sheath goes on the rack with the curve pointed up, but then the ornamentation would be upside-down?
well i am no sword expert, hence why I be asking these questions....
For all i know it could very well be made in china....
thats why i want to get some information on what the inscriptions say...
I might look at the makers mark by removing the handle as David suggested...
The previous owner explained that this was a shrine sword and not a battle sword, hence the curved handle.
the sheath and handle is all made from brass. its quite heavy to carry around on the battle field......
Thanks to every one for all your input so far...I didnt expect it would generate much interest.... I just thought i might get one simple reply..."the inscriptions mean...bla bla bla bla"
Just saw the photos - that's a beautiful thing u have there. Looks very Kama Sutra too, and I guess a sword is needed in the boudoir? :-)
On the subject of curves - no curves: the very famous sword known as the 'Washing Pole' had no curve at all. I think with more research it could be possible to find instances of straight blades and/or curved handles.
I believe the straight handle and curved blade is a good general rule but that exceptions were made (at least the Washing Pole was exceptional).
I am really curious about this.
Never seen one with a curved handle like that. The tsuba (crossguard) looks somewhat unsual in some ways too, but being perhaps decorative/ceremonial, who knows.
I only have one Katana - the Shin Gunto my Grandfather brought back from Balikpapan.
PS: I am SURE you know this, but whatever you do, do NOT attempt to polish the brass etc - it'll kill the value instantly to half what you paid for it.
