Birds & Flowers - circa 1394, Ouei Era (Muromachi period)

Description

Forged in the Ouei Era (circa 1394) during the early Muromachi period, this certified NBTHK Hozen Token wakizashi was judged as Sue-Enju. It belonged to a proud samurai family for over 600 years, and bears the marks of true battlefield use — visible cuts and nicks still grace the saya. Yet, its koshirae speaks of beauty and cultural reverence: the fuchi/kashira is exquisitely crafted, and the tsuba is an intricate iron carving from the renowned Soten school, rimmed with grooved gold. The kojiri, though not original, was replaced with an even older fitting — a restoration choice that enhanced its historical value. The kozuka, which depicts a samurai alongside the god of war, is signed. The sword features a double old-style habaki with rich color and texture, and the samegawa has matured into a warm gray patina, the hallmark of centuries of preservation. An authentic warrior’s sword with top-tier artistry, offered well below market due to a rare acquisition opportunity.