Sword of Many Fists - circa 1661, Kanbun Era

Description

Forged in the Kanbun Era (circa 1661) by master Naka-Kawachi Kunisuke, this NBTHK Hozon Token certified wakizashi is a rare and finely executed work of art. The sword’s name derives from the smith's signature hamon pattern known as 'fist choji' — a striking clove-like motif highly regarded among collectors. The hamon rises boldly from the habaki before descending with grace toward the kissaki, showcasing Kunisuke’s distinctive style. The blade is matched with a remarkable koshirae: a split kogai that cleverly snaps together at a crest, historically used as chopsticks by samurai — a rare and ingenious feature. Additionally, the sword includes an intact, signed kozuka in rattan-style finish with a gold-inlaid family mon of three hawk feathers. The overall fittings reflect the status of a high-ranking Daimyo — understated in areas facing the emperor, yet elaborately adorned elsewhere with techniques such as gold-inlaid perforated shakudo. The tsuba is a copper masterpiece, also bearing noble and imperial crests, while the saya is finished in deep chocolate tones representing the night sky. This piece includes its original signed blade and is accompanied by an official NBTHK certificate and a rare hand-drawn oshigata scroll tracing the blade’s hamon by Japan’s foremost expert.