Lot 3364: Signed Gunto-Pattern Japanese Sword

Measuring 37 inches in overall length, the blade is 26 1/4 inches long with a wavy hamon, active grain and a silver washed copper habaki. Fitted with a round iron tsuba, nickel plated furniture, cherry blossom themed menuki, and tan cord wrap over black painted rayskin. One mekugi-ana is present in the tang, and a six-figure signature on the left side; no arsenal/showa stamps visible. With a textured black saya fitted to match the hilt.

Fine. The exceptionally fine blade shows some minor spotting and handling on the exterior, with well defined hamon and attractive grain. The tang shows an uncleaned, brown color suggestive of 19th or very early 20th century production. The hilt and saya show mild wear, with some loose fittings and mild scuffs and flaking.