I recently purchased this little Japanese sword (December 04). I'm in the process of trying to do some research on it's origin.
The overall blade length (including tang) is 51 cm (20 inches). Blade depth is 2 1/2 cm (1 inch).
The sword is currently being restored by the swordsmith, sword polisher and scabbard maker Paul Baker (he will also be making a saya and shirasaya for it). When Paul has finished the polishing stages he may be able to give me more of an indication as to its age, the region in which it may have been made, previous owners etc. What has this sword been doing all this time?
The two characters are "hiro" and "yuki". If anyone would like to offer more information or comments on this sword I will be grateful.
There is a signature. M. Yumoto's book says the characters are "yuki" and "hiro".
The Tsuba has some signs of gold coloured inlay. I'd like to think there is more inlay to be uncovered - but think it more likely that it has all worn off. The surface has what looks like an imprint of material in the rust/crud. This imprint tyrned out to be file marks. This is visible in the larger picture (if your monitor is up to it). I have since cleaned it with Phosphoric acid (sorry - but it did work very well). Forgot to take pictures of it since the clean - but I will soon.
Buke-zukuri mount ? Could this date from the date of the sword?
The Habaki. Would this be contemporary with the hilt?
The blade was in a shocking state.
Below, the sword after Paul has worked some magic!
And a new wrap.
And with more polish....
And a new Saya...
Shira Saya being made... so stand by.
Email me if you have any questions or if you'd like to contact Paul Baker. Mike McDonnell mike@mcdonnell.co.uk