Hachiya Kanesada Katana

Specifications:

• Mei (Signature): 表【兼貞】
• Type: Katana
• Period : Muromachi
• Registration Date: September 12, Heisei 3 (1991)
  
• Blade Length: 63.4 cm
• Curvature (Sori): 1.6 cm
• Mekugi-ana: 2
• Motohaba (Width at the base): 2.0 cm
• Motokasane (Thickness at the base): 0.45 cm
• Sakihaba (Width at the tip): 1.35 cm
• Sakikasane (Thickness at the tip): 0.3 cm
• Blade Weight: Approximately 308.4g (excluding Habaki and handle)
• Habaki Weight: Approximately 10g
• Total Sheath (Saya) Length: Approximately 90.5 cm

Background and History:

This sword is a rare work of the renowned Mino province blacksmith, Hachiya Kanesada. Originating from the Mino region, this blade seems to date from the Tenbun era (around 1532), making it a relic of about 491 years. Though the sword is slender with a motohaba of just 2 cm, its lightweight nature makes it an exceptional piece.

Kanesada, often bestowed with the title "Hachiya" due to his residence in the Hachiya area of Mino, is a name that has been carried through several generations of blacksmiths during the Muromachi period. These blacksmiths were famed for their finely crafted blades, tailored for both beauty and function.

Kanesada swords are known for their harmony between the beauty of the temper and the functionality of the cut. The fact that this blade is a "shoshin" (authentic) Kanesada, probably from the fourth generation given the dating, makes it an especially treasured piece for collectors.

The Hachiya Kanesada school was influential during the Muromachi period, especially during the tumultuous years when the demand for reliable and efficient swords was at its peak. These blades were cherished not only for their cutting ability but also for their artistic beauty.

This Kanesada is an excellent example of the forging art of the Muromachi period, a time when Japan was in upheaval, and samurai were in desperate need of reliable weapons for the unceasing feudal wars. Having such a piece in your collection is both a privilege and a window into a bygone era of feudal Japan.