Lot 376: Japanese Sword with Sword Bag

Measuring 39 inches overall, this sword is outfitted with a 26 3/4 inch blade with a slightly wavy hamon, attractive grain, and a brass habaki. A round iron tsuba is installed, sculpted with a pierced-through scalloped pattern and bearing floral and fu-dog motifs, textured copper furniture with gilt borders, and polished copper menuki with "bird in brush" designs. The tang is unsigned and well aged, with one redrilled mekugi-ana. The saya has streaked black lacquer finish, with textured and gilt bordered furniture that is match for the sword fittings. A protective bag is also included. Per statements from the consignor, this sword was a family heirloom brought home from Japan by an unnamed U.S. Army doctor.

Fine overall, with some light spotting and rubbing on the blade, clear hamon, and mild staining of the wrap. Some play is present in the furniture, and the saya shows some splitting at the seams and chipping of the lacquer.