A Sukesada Katana (備州長船祐定)

Few experiences in the world of Japanese swords match holding a blade dated within the Kôtô period – and this Bizen katana, signed and dated to the third month of Eisho 8 (March 1511), is exactly that. Forged over 500 years ago during the turbulent Sengoku Jidai or Warring States period, this is a long, classically proportioned samurai sword with unmistakable presence. The Sukesada lineage was among the most prolific and celebrated schools working out of Osafune village in Bizen province, and celebrated smiths such as Hikobei and Yosozaemon were active during this very era.

The blade itself rewards close inspection. The jihada is a fine koitame threaded with the prized midare-utsuri – that misty, smoky reflection billowing up from the hamon that is the hallmark of the great Bizen tradition. The hamon is a lively gunome midare with choji and ashi, punctuated by plentiful nioi crystals that give the temper line its characteristic depth and luminosity. The nakago remains ubu and carries both the smith’s signature and a clear date inscription – a combination that anchors this blade firmly in history.

The sword is mounted in a striking set of Edo-period koshirae in the Higo tradition, inspired by the refined aesthetic of Hosokawa Tadaoki (1563-1645). The iron tsuba is a superb Nanban example – dragons entwined in a karakusa arabesque pattern, rich with European-influenced energy. The saya is uniquely lacquered in a whirlpool design that echoes the swirling grain of the blade itself, and the leather-bound tsuka has survived in excellent condition since the 1800s. The sword is in an older polish consistent with its age and history, and has been assessed as needing no further work.