Naginata Naoshi Wakizashi - Kashu Sanekage, NBTHK Tokobetsu Hozon

Naginata Naoshi Wakizashi - NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Attribution to Kashu Sanekage

Smith Details:

The attribution for the blade by the NBTHK is to Kashu Sanakage. There are other examples with NBTHK papers with the same attribution and it is understood this points to the 1st generation Sanekage. The first generation is traditionally understood to have been a student of the great Norishige whom was himself a student and contemporary of Masamune. Sanakage's style is definitely influenced by Norishige and some have said also resembles Go Yoshihiro. His Kaga roots also had an impact on his style.

Fujishiro Ranking - Josaku, Ryo-Wazamono         

Hawley Ranking - 120

Toko Taikan - 7.5M         

Active: 1340 - 1380

Sword Details:

The blade started off as a naginata forged during the Nanbokucho period. At some point it was converted to a wakizashi. Is was a common enough of a practice and there are other existent examples of Naginata Naoshi made by Sanekage. As seen in the pictures there is a very unique "U" shaped Bohi which is rarely seen and very well executed. 

As one can see in the pictures, this is a very striking blade! The blade is in polish and the intensity of the influence of Norishige is on full display! Mainly Itame Hada with O-Itame diving in and out of the Hamon. Very well grained with Ji-nie and Chikei. The Hamon is very active with Sunagashi and Kinsuji.  Nie-deki with deep Nio-guchi. Very similar to Norishige.

There is a small pin prick in the hada which is hard to take a picture of due to its small size. There is an area in the hamon where there is a small opening in the grain.

This blade is a candidate for Juyo. It would need an appropriate Juyo level polish.

Blade is presented in shirasaya that is in excellent condition with a wooden habaki.

Hada - Itame, O-Itame         

Hamon - Gunome-midare

Nagasa (cutting edge length) 16"