Mumei Taira Takada Katana, Late Muromachi Period, in Shirasaya

Type: Katana

Nakago: Mumei Suriage

Period: Late Muromachi period, ca. 1550–1570 AD

School: Taira Takada, Bungo Province

Attribution: Taira Takada (平高田)

Papers: NBTHK Hozon

Horimono: None

Koshirae: None, shirasaya

Habaki: Silver foiled

Specifications:

Nagasa (Cutting-edge length): 64.20cm

Sori (Curvature): To be measured

Motohaba: To be measured

Sakihaba: To be measured

Construction: Shinogi-zukuri

Description:

Attributed to Taira Takada by NBTHK Hozon papers. This is a mumei katana dating from the late Muromachi period, approximately 1550–1570 AD, and represents the final stage of the Koto-period Takada tradition of Bungo Province.

The Takada school has a long history extending back to the late Kamakura period. By the late Muromachi period, the school had developed into what is generally known as Taira Takada. The smiths of this tradition were active during the turbulent Sengoku period and became known for producing.

This katana has a gunome midare hamon, with very nice and healthy consistency. The jihada is mostly tight Ko-itame. The sword has a typical late Muromachi sugata, even though it is shortened. It still looks wonderful in hand, with lots of activity to enjoy.

The sword remains in good overall polish. There are some light scratches on the surface, but these are minor and do not significantly detract from the appearance of the blade. The jihada and hamon remain clearly visible and can be appreciated well in its current condition.

The katana is preserved in shirasaya.