Japanese Wakizashi Sword Signed 1550s . SJ322B

Japanese Wakizashi sword. Blade is Muromachi era, samurai era 1336 to 1573. Black lacquered saya (wooden scabbard) in good overall condition. Saya also has side knife (Kodzuka) side slot as well, however, no side knife which is typically missing. I believe to be Edo period fittings (Koshirae) most likely around 1603 to 1867. This is a signed blade (Bishu Jyu Munemitsu, circa 1550s) with one-hole nakago (tang). Blade has a two-piece habaki (blade collar) and nice straight hamon (tempering line), blade in nice looking overall condition, however, you can see openings in areas, adding to the character of the blade. Tsuka (handle) with black wrap still in good shape, ray skin cover wood core with nice pair of menuki. Nice looking fuchi and kashira (end cap) fittings with highlights and nice tsuba (hand guard) with raised type design. Blade length approximately 15 1/2 inches cutting edge, approximately 23 1/2 inches in overall length. 

Additional Notes: Wakizashi blades are typically between 12 inches to 24 inches or (30-60cm) or (between 1 and 2 shaku). The wakizashi (side inserted sword) is one of the traditionally made Japanese swords (nihonto) worn by the samurai in feudal Japan. Its name refers to the practice of wearing it inserted through one’s obi or sash at one’s side, whereas the larger tachi sword was worn slung from a cord.

Koshirae is somewhat of a catch-all term that covers all ornate mountings in which a sword is carried and stored.

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