Ancient Japanese Swords

[Old Dog]

the Seki Sword Tradition Museum guided by Koji Hara. Super cool to see that many historical and modern variants. If you have the opportunity to flap over to that area of Japan: that region is fun to visit the shops in search of forged and production goodies.

Have had a lot of time in Sasebo, Yokohama, Yokusuka and Tokyo. Wishing I'd spent more time in the museums than the bars and nightclubs.

Hirado City near Nagasaki has some great museums. Matsura Historical Museum is awesome. Lots of old Samurai armor and, of course, the swords. Spent quite a bit of time in Sasebo, wishing I'd taken the time and spent the money to either buy an authentic sword or a quality Japanese replica.

@Flat Rock - what a wonderful heirloom. Your sword has soul.

 

[Flat Rock]

The Tsuba on the bottom right is from ca. 1400 and is the oldest, the one to the left of it is 1500's and represents a hawk feather.

 

[Shanghai McCoy]

^^^
Interesting and elegant in it's design.
Question, are these cast or were they forged ?

 

[Flat Rock]

^^^
Interesting and elegant in it's design.
Question, are these cast or were they forged ?

They are forged. the skill of the old smiths is amazing

 

[Shanghai McCoy]

They are forged. the skill of the old smiths is amazing

The quality and care of those Craftsman is both inspirational and, a bit, intimidating.