Overview
This nihonto (Japanese sword) was crafted by Mitsutada, who is considered the de facto founder of the Long-boat school (Nagasen-ha), a style that flourished in Bizen Province (modern Okayama Prefecture) during the mid-Kamakura Period. It gained fame as “Sengokuhō Mitsutada” because it was once owned by Sanuki samurai and warlord, Ikoma Yasumasa. Today, it is housed at the Yayō Bunko Foundation, which preserves treasures that were historically passed down to the Hosokawa family of Kumamoto Domain. The sword is known as one of the greatest masterpieces of the Long-boat school, combining a magnificent blade pattern with powerful construction.
Historical Background
The mid-Kamakura Period was a time when swordsmithing techniques advanced dramatically alongside the rise of samurai culture. Mitsutada’s work is famous for being collected by Oda Nobunaga, and it has maintained high esteem as an iconic masterpiece from the medieval through early modern periods. Originally forged as a long tachi (single-edged sword), this blade was later refined into the length of a more practical uda-tō (short sword). During this process, the renowned appraiser Hon’ami Kōtoku authenticated Mitsutada as the creator, and to prove this, he applied the “gold inlay engraving.” Since being gifted from the Ikoma family to the Hosokawa family, it has maintained a rich history as a cherished family heirloom.
Features and Appeal
This sword holds extremely high artistic and historical value, featuring several notable characteristics:
- Imposing Construction: It retains the wide body and majestic appearance characteristic of the mid-Kamakura Period. Despite being polished down, its powerful and reliable shape symbolizes the spirit and resolve of the samurai class.
- Exquisite Blade Pattern: The Jūka Chōji (heavy floral pattern) wave-like temper line—a signature style of Mitsutada—is beautifully expressed across the entire blade.
- Detailed Forging: The intricate steel forging, known as kobanametada (fine grain texture), is distinguished by its thick jii (surface scale). This exhibits a refined beauty underpinned by high technical skill.
- Precious Appraisal Inscription: The gold inlay on the tang (nakago) serves as proof of appraisal by Hon’ami Kōtoku, signifying that this sword possesses exceptional prestige and reliability among all famous Japanese swords.
Source: Excerpted from the National Designated Cultural Properties Database (https://kunishitei.bunka.go.jp/bsys/index)