Tokyo Nihonto
Antique Japanese Sword Katana by Taira Takada - Hozon Token
Antique Japanese Sword Katana by Taira Takada - Hozon Token
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Muromachi Period Katana - Attributed to Taira Takada
This exceptional katana, attributed to the prestigious Takada school in Bungo province (modern-day Oita prefecture), reflects the rich history and craftsmanship of the late Muromachi period. The blade is unsigned (mumei) and comes with a NBTHK Hozon Token certificate, affirming its authenticity and cultural value.
Specifications:
- Total Length: 91.8 cm
- Blade Length: 63.6 cm
- Curvature (Sori): 1.6 cm
- Base Width (Motohaba): 2.7 cm
- Tip Width (Sakihaba): 0.5 cm
- Base Thickness (Motokasane): 0.6 cm
- Weight: 1.62 kg
Additional Details:
- Period: Late Muromachi
- Certificate: Hozon Token
- Signature: Mumei
Features:
The katana features a shinogi-zukuri shape with a toori-zori curvature, and a ko-kissaki (small tip) and iori mune (roof-shaped back). The nakago (tang) has an iriyama gata nakagojiri (rounded end). The hamon (temper line) is in a gunome midare (undulating pattern), showcasing the blade’s superior craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal.
Historical Context:
The Takada school, founded by Takada Tomoyuki during the Nanbokucho period (1334-1338 A.D.), was renowned for its exceptional sword-making techniques. Tomoyuki trained in the Bizen province to master the craft before returning to Takada village to establish the school. This tradition of excellence continued through generations, and during the Edo period, those who forged swords in Takada were referred to as Taira Takada or Fujiwara Takada.
During the Sengoku period (15th to late 16th century), the Takada school produced numerous swords for samurai in Kyushu. These blades were highly regarded, often compared to the famous Mino and Bizen swords. The Bungo domain, under the rule of Otomo Yoshishige (also known as Sorin), saw significant military and political strength, with the Takada school forging swords for warriors serving the Otomo clan.
Kyushu’s strategic trading position with Asian countries fostered a prosperous environment for sword-making. The Takada school’s reputation for high-quality swords ensured a steady demand from feudal lords engaged in regional conflicts.
Condition:
The blade shows signs of age with some rust and minor scratches. The koshirae (mountings) and shirasaya (plain wooden scabbard) are included, though there may be some looseness and wear, as shown in the photographs. Note that some accessories, like the mekugi (peg), may not be included.
This katana is a remarkable piece of history, reflecting the skill and legacy of the Takada school. It is not only a weapon but a testament to the rich sword-making traditions of the late Muromachi period and the enduring legacy of the samurai.
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Payment
You can pay by Bank card or Bank transfer. If you wish to use bank transfer please contact us using the form bellow with the name of the sword you are willing to buy.
Customs and Taxes
・Import duties, taxes and charges are not included in the item price or shipping charges. These charges are the buyer’s responsibility.
・Please check with your country’s customs office to determine what these additional costs will be prior to bidding/buying.
・These charges are normally collected by the delivering freight (shipping) company or when you pick the item up - do not confuse them for additional shipping charges.
Shipping and Return
- Swords are shipped from Tokyo, Japan. We manage all the procedures to export the sword.
- You can't return sword to Japan because procedures are too strict.
- We work with a shipping company that have experience with Nihonto so you don't have to worry.
- Please check the rules of your country before importing the sword. We do not take any responsibility, including (not limited to) refund, due to the above reasons.
We have shipped authentic Japanese swords to the USA, UK, Canada, Mexico, Germany, France, Hong Kong, and Australia. If you don’t live in these countries and like to order, please contact us first before purchasing. We normally ship by EMS (Express Mail Service) provided by Japan Post.
If you live in the UK, please contact us BEFORE order.
Export Procedure (We manage it)
・All our swords are registered in the Agency for Cultural Affairs as artwork and The Board of Education(Cultural properties protection Committee); therefore each sword has the registration card, issued by the Board of Education.
・After receiving the full payment of the items,we return the registration card and get the permission from Ministry of Cultural Affairs to export the swords legally from Japan. It will take about 20 business days to do this procedure.
・After the receiving the permission, we will inform you by email and send the items immediately.