Edo period wakizashi Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing of swords, but may be worn by classes other than the samurai as a single blade, also The blade length is approximately 12 1/2 inches long. May 1, 2024 · Historical Significance and Use During the Edo period, the wakizashi was indispensable. Kojiri, Kuri Gata and Koi Guchi in 5 days ago · View information about this sale in Hallandale, FL. For centuries, this versatile weapon served as the samurai's constant companion - ready for close-quarters combat, ceremonial duties, and even the ultimate act of honour. This combination of katana and wakizashi became the standard for samurai during the Momoyama period. Using the uchigatana, their primary weapon, to sever heads risked damaging its edge. " A more accurate word is tōsō (刀装), meaning sword-furniture Original Item: Only One Available. Samurai often carried both swords together. See the circled area on the timeline above. Saya made of wood covered with black and red lacquer, with raised Feb 5, 2019 · it looks more like a WAKIZASHI than a wazikashi. Apr 19, 2025 · The wakizashi, Japan's iconic short sword, was far more than just a smaller counterpart to the katana. In the Edo period (1603 ~ 1868 AD) the Goto family, which already had worked for the Ashikaga, almost dominated sword fittings, especially for the daisho. Wooden saya covered with ringed black lacquer. Dec 13, 2024 · By the Edo period, the katana and wakizashi combination became a formal emblem of the samurai class. Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing of swords, but may be worn by classes other than the samurai as a single blade, also The blade is signed Masahisa, who was a swordsmith from the Edo period. Bizen Yokoyama Sukenaga being the top ranked maker of the Bizen Yokoyama school during the Shinshinto period, highly sought after as representative examples of the Bizen Yokoyama tradition. 7mm NBTHK (Hozon)certificate Blade construction : Shinogi-zukuri, Iori-mune, Wide in Mihaba, thick in Kasane holding less degree of tapering from base to extended medium Kissaki. 2cm Width of base 32. Another theory is that during the Sengoku period, samurai need to collect enemy heads as proof of victory to claim rewards and gain honor. [14] The wakizashi was one of several short swords available for use by samurai including the yoroi tōshi, and the chisa-katana. The signature of smith is inscripted on tang. Aug 11, 2015 · Entering the Edo period, it is, as indicated, sometimes hard or even impossible to tell if a blade that measures somewhere around 2 shaku was ordered by a member of the samurai class to be his hon or his wakizashi. And on the samurai were permitted to carry the katana in the Edo period. While the tachi was originally the primary weapon for mounted samurai, it was replaced by the katana as combat shifted to infantry-based fighting. During the Edo period (1603-1868), the Wakizashi, together with the longer Katana, developed into the characteristic Daishō pair that marked the status of a samurai. Generally it is the short […] May 24, 2025 · Edo Period Japnaese Wakizashi sword in shirasaya, ca. My personal opinion is that it could be a blade from the early EDO period (KANBUN), and the smith knew probably about the weak spot in the NAKAGO so he did not sign Nov 1, 2023 · Hello! I have aquired an wakizashi supposedly Edo period Signature is Hizen no kuni ju Tadayoshi Nagasa is 54 cm Its my first antique Japanese sword, so i hoped to get a bit more info Is it legit? I submiting for an NBTHK out of the question for example? Bought it on the sbg forums Also, i upload Original Item: Only One Available. Many Thanks The wakizashi was used as a backup or auxiliary sword; [1] it was also used for close quarters fighting, to behead a defeated opponent [13] and sometimes to commit seppuku. In the early 17th century, it was sometimes called a kodachi. May 13, 2025 · In traditional woodblock prints, samurai are often depicted with the wakizashi accompanying the katana, emphasizing its integral role in their identity. This tradition developed over centuries and reached its peak in the Edo period, when the symbolic meaning of the sword pair had already pushed the practical use into the background. ) in early Edo period, 6600's. The fuchi-kashira (collar and pommel) are adorned with detailed craftsmanship, enhancing the sword’s overall appearance. This Wakizashi was made in between Mid-Edo Period and late Edo-Period. This blade comes with NBTHK Hozon certificate. Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing of swords, but may be worn by classes other than the samurai as a single blade, also Antique Nihonto - Wakizashi in Shirasaya - Edo Period (about 300 years old) Original Item: Only One Available. 5cm Curvature 1. The koshirae show ware typical to daily use from the Edo time period but is repairable. (Prior to the Edo period, wakizashi could literally be any kind of short sword worn together with another sword. 8 cm and wakizashi to 51. Wakizashi (脇差 “side inserted / companion sword”) is a general term for a sword between one and two shaku long (30 cm and 60 cm). Yaki Zume type boshi. These swords were usually between 30 and 60 centimeters (12 to 24 inches) long East Asia, Japan, early Edo Period, ca. 2mm Thickness of base 7. Dec 19, 2024 · Over time, the wakizashi evolved into a standardized form, acquiring its characteristic features particularly during the Muromachi period (1336-1573). Sugu (straight lined Hamon) was purposely made, but there are some Notare that is a light wavy pattern. A forged steel wakizashi blad Shinto eraly Edo period (Kanbun 9th/1669) Owari Length of cutting edge 52. Interestingly enough though, the Wakizashi was not an exclusive blade. The black dye which would highlight the carvings has now faded with time. Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing of swords, but may be worn by classes other than the samurai as a single blade, also Apr 20, 2015 · In other words, wakizashi curve more, show a harmonious taper, and end in a chû-kissaki. Wakizashi (脇差 "side inserted / companion sword") is a general term for a sword between one and two shaku long (30 cm and 60 cm), predominantly made after 1600. They all played important roles in the samurai’s armament, with differences in length, use, and historical context. Kaeri Fukashi type boshi. Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing of swords, but may be worn by classes other than the samurai as a single blade, also Hirazukuri Wakizashi 平造脇差, Wide blade, Edo period mumei $0. Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing of swords, but may be worn by classes other than the samurai as a single blade, also Wakizashi sword mounting (koshirae), Edo period, 19th century Design of Waka no Ura non Ikakeji lacquer ground Tokyo National Museum Photo taken by Chris 73 in January 2005 Licensing: Mar 25, 2025 · A wakizashi koshirae [sword mount] Edo period, 19 th century decorated in lacquered ray skin, iron soten tsuba inlaid in gilt depicting warriors, raised russet iron rim, associated shakudo nanako fuchi-kashira with further scenes of samurai, the gold on shakudo-nanako kozuka depicting Yoshitsune at the battle of Yashima, the blade signed 75 cm. This is a beautiful, antique wakizashi in a unique koshirae with silver fittings, white saya with silver kozuka knife and black-colored tsuka. THANK YOU ! Edo Period Japanese Wakizashi sword in shirasaya, ca. Shop our selection of Japanese Swords from the world's premier auctions and galleries. This is an antique Wakizashi sword made by swordsmith Fujiwara KUNIYUKI located in Higo (Ohita pref. Nakago Funa Gata and Ha Hagari Kuri Jiri. Definitely some great history to this sword, with lots of potential for research. The blade and its certification underscore its historical significance, connecting it to the Edo period, a time when the samurai Apr 29, 2024 · In fact, during the Edo period, a samurai was required by law to wear a pair of swords, consisting of a katana and a wakizashi, as a sign of their status. 6 cm, and wakizashi to 54. Japanese literature, such as Edo-period tales, highlights the wakizashi in dramatic storylines, particularly in acts of seppuku, underscoring its gravity in ritual and duty. And this sugata was more or less kept unchangedly until kotô swords were revived in the late Edo period. The mounts are formal Samurai style, with minimum decoration & a glossy black lacquered saya. From the shape of the tang and the kissaki, it is highly likely that this blade was originally a katana that was latershortened into a wakizashi (ō-wakizashi). A very nice Edo Period O-wakizashi with a Falsely attributed blade, reissued for use during WWII. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network. Wakizashi koshirae (Wakizashi mounting). This historical sword mounting represents genuine samurai sword furniture from Japan's feudal era, perfect for collectors, restoration projects, or educational purposes. During the Edo period, the Tokugawa shogunate required samurai to wear Katana and shorter swords in pairs. Property from an Important Private Collection A shinto Chikuzen wakizashi Signed Nobukuni Minamoto Yoshisada Edo period, 17 th century Sugata [configuration]: Hira-zukuri with shallow sori Kitae [forging pattern]: Itame and mokume hada mixed with chikei Hamon [tempering pattern]: Suguha hamon in nie-deki and faint bo-utsuri Boshi [tip]: Togari, maru-boshi Horimono [carvings]: The omote with May 24, 2025 · Edo period wakizashi, ca. Explore a wide range of our Edo Period Katana selection. long, 29½ in. Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing of swords, but may be worn by classes other than the samurai as a single blade, also Mar 4, 2024 · Introduction to the Edo Period and its Significance in Katana History The Historical Context of the Edo Period The Edo period, a pivotal era in Japanese history, was characterized by over two centuries of peace and stability under the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate. Please check the details from the pictures. Research past prices of Japanese Swords to buy or bid confidently today! SABER called Wakizashi Japan - Edo period (1603-1868) Steel, wood, lacquer, copper, horn, gold, shakudo Nagasa: 39. The sword has an overall length in the scabbard of approximately 23 1/2 inches. The two swords were always carried together: the wakizashi finished off the work of the katana sword. During the Edo period, the wakizashi became a vital weapon for close-quarters combat, offering superior maneuverability in confined spaces compared Original Item: Only One Available. The blade, measuring 33 inches long, was crafted by Settsu ju Fujiwara Tadayuki, the first generation of swordsmiths under this name. Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing of swords, but may be worn by classes other than the samurai as a single blade, also Edo period long wakizashi Mito Sukemits antique japanese samurai sword katana $1,450. Scabbard and grip are finely carved and incised with Japanese decorative elements and monkeys. Mar 14, 2025 · The wakizashi, tachi, and katana each have distinct purposes in Japanese warfare and culture. It's shorter than the katana, another famous Japanese sword. Wakizashi close to the length of a katana are called ō-wakizashi and wakizashi closer to tantō length are called ko-wakizashi. During the Edo period, the Tokugawa shogunate required samurai to wear Katana and shorter The geometry is well preserved, with a chu-kissaki and visible hamon. Wakizashi Edo period Wakizashi have been in use as far back as the 15th [10] or 16th century. Wakizashi sword, Edo period. Wakizashi (脇差 "side inserted / companion sword") is a general term for a sword between one and two shaku long (30 cm and 60 cm). Such a sword could be from 30cm to 60cm (12 to 24 inches) long. Sep 24, 2017 · Mountings: The sword is in Edo period koshirae with copper fittings and one piece gold washed habaki. Their reign lasted for more than 250 years, in an era referred to as the Edo period, after the town of Edo (present-day Tokyo) that became the new capital of Japan. ) The Purpose of the Wakizashi Why exactly did samurai feel the need to carry more than one sword? EDO PERIOD WAKIZASHI, KANEHISA 1615-1876 Wakizashi, early Edo period, 1615-1876, (Japanese Kanehisa), Menuki has rising sun on one side and crescent moon on other, silver plated stylized Habaki, striped black lacquer Saya or scabbard with metal drag or Kojiri. Aug 23, 2024 · A Japanese Wakizashi sword from the Edo period has been discovered in a Berlin cellar, raising questions about its mysterious journey to Germany. Fujishima 藤島 Wakizashi, with Shirasaya and NBTHK Certificate, Edo period $0. Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing of swords, but may be worn by classes other than the samurai as a single blade, also New Listing Wakizashi Japanese antique sword 47. Copper habaki covered with shakudo. Late Edo Ansei period Wakizashi attributed to Yokoyama Sukenaga in suguha hamon in full polish. Discover its use in combat, cultural significance, and lasting influence. 1600s - 1700s, Echizen Seki school blade, late Edo period samurai style koshirae Total length (inside scabbard if present) : 26 1/8", Blade length : 17 1/4". Identification is always difficult via photos, but if you could give us all dimensions and show HADA and HAMON clearly on both sides, some of the experts here might give it a try. Tokyo National Museum. You were not a Samurai if you didn’t have the daisho – a katana and wakizashi combo. It was worn alongside the katana as part of the daishō (大小, “big and small” pair), symbolizing the samurai class during the Edo period (1603–1868). Total length (inside scabbard if present): 30 1/4", Blade: 20 1/4". They are also called Fukko-to (復古刀: revived sword). The wakizashi is a traditional Japanese sword. Sep 6, 2025 · SABER called Wakizashi Japan - Edo Period (1603-1868) Steel, wood, lacquer, copper, horn, shakudo, gold, brass, silver, bone Nagasa: 33; Nakago: 11 cm Sori: 1 cm Shinogi Tsukuri type blade, Mune Hikushi, Gunome type Hamon. Detailed condition reports are not included in this catalog. The exposed length of the the blade is 19 inches and makes this The blade is signed Echizen Koku Shimosaka which was a group of swordsmiths in the Echizen province in the late Muromachi and early Edo period (1580-1624). It is a companion weapon to the standard Katana and features a curved blade. Nov 24, 2023 · Mastering Japanese Short Swords Wakizashi: Combat Techniques and Uses What Are Japanese Short Swords Called? The wakizashi, a single-edged Japanese short sword, is an essential part of the traditional samurai arsenal, often paired with the katana. 5 cm. Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing Mar 24, 2007 · Hello All,Here is another specimen from my Japanese sword collection. Sep 15, 2025 · These features are consistent with practical wakizashi made in the late Edo new sword (shinto) to shinshinto periods. History and use An antique Japanese wakizashi with koshirae and related parts, shown dis-assembled. The saya (scabbard) is the standard army issue and the handle and guard are of the Kyu-gunto style used during the period around the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-05. Also, the Nioikuchi, has some narrow parts and broad parts. Fukko-to replicates the shape, hamon, boshi, and other features of the Ko-to and Shin- to swords. The shinobi of the Sengoku period also carried similar Feb 5, 2005 · Captions English Add a one-line explanation of what this file represents Wakizashi sword mounting (koshirae), Edo period, 19th century Design of Waka no Ura non Ikakeji lacquer ground Tokyo National Museum Photo taken by Chris 73 in January 2005 Licensing: Dec 19, 2024 · Artistic Representation of the Wakizashi in Japanese Tradition Traditional Japanese painting presents the Wakizashi in various forms. mid-17th century, signed "Bishu Osafune" on tang. This piece reflects the quality, symbolism, and practical function of a samurai’s sidearm, offering both historical significance and collector value. Shop now for fast shipping and easy returns! Jan 9, 2025 · The Wakizashi always appeared as part of the pair, never individually. The blade is signed Masahisa, who was a swordsmith from the Edo period. 9 cm u2028 Hira Tsukuri type blade, Mune Takashi, Hiro Suguha type Hamon. 4; Nakago: 12. Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing of swords, but may be worn by classes other than the samurai as a single blade, also worn edge up . Aug 22, 2023 · The Wakizashi (脇差) is sort of like a short Katana but is also different in some ways. Daitsuki-niju-habaki in copper. Dec 25, 2023 · The length of the swords carried by members of the warrior class was restricted by the government in 1638, with katana being limited to 84. At this point in time, wakizashi also began to refer to the type of short sword described above. 1600s - 1800s, related to Bizen school tradition Total length (inside scabbard if present): 30 1/4", Blade: 20 1/4". As with many other things, wearing of swords was regulated. Japanese 脇差 Wakizashi Edo Period Sword Fine Temper WWII Non-Traditional Mounts For Sale When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. The word koshirae is derived from the verb koshiraeru (拵える), which is no longer used in current speech. The Tokugawa regime brought economic growth, prolonged peace, and A beautiful example of antique Edo period Daisho - Katana and Wakizashi - the pairing of which was exclusive to the Samurai class Apr 22, 2024 · Explore the rich history of the wakizashi, a samurai's close companion. 1600s - 1800s, related to Bizen school tradition. As a basic rule, Edo period swords tend to have less curvature and heavier than koto or older swords made before the Edo period. While the katana was sometimes required to be left at the door of a palace or home, the wakizashi could be worn at all times, making it a constant companion for personal protection. 00 or Best Offer Free shipping A wakizashi Signed Suishinshi Masahide Edo period, Tenmei gonen hachigatsu hi (a day in the 8 th month 1785) Sugata [configuration]: shinogi-zukuri, iori mune, shallow tori-zori, chu-kissaki Kitae [forging pattern]: densely packed itame with mokume in places Hamon [tempering pattern]: o-choji midare, wide and bright nioi-guchi, ashi, some tobiyaki, in ji-nie Boshi [tip]: rounded maru-boshi Mar 21, 2022 · After almost a century and a half of near-constant civil war and political upheaval, Japan unified under a new ruling family, the Tokugawa, in the early 1600s. Wakizashi (脇差 "side inserted / companion sword") is a general term for a sword with an edge between one and two shaku long (30 cm and 60 cm), predominantly made after 1600. 00 USD Sold out Jan 1, 2024 · From the Edo period onwards (after 1600), katanas became longer, and standardized in length. Wakizashi was primarily used for indoor fighting. Find top brands, exclusive offers, and unbeatable prices on eBay. Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing of swords, but may be worn by classes other than the samurai as a single blade, also A very nice late Muromachi Period wakizashi by a well-regarded known smith with a nice set of Edo period fittings! Ready to cherish and display! Specifications: Blade Length: 18 ⅛ " Blade Shape: Shinogi-Zukuri Overall length: 24 ⅜ “ Scabbard Length: 21 ½ " It has been over one thousand years ago that the art of making swords appeared in Oct 26, 2025 · Hello, This item is a 17th-century Wakizashi sword from Japan, authenticated by the NTHK (Nihon Token Hozon Kai) with a certificate. This is an Edo-period wakizashi koshirae (sword mounting) only. Overall Condition: The blade is old but in good polish with some minor scratches, abrasions and rust spots. The metal parts are made by Goto Ichijo. It is being run by Zev Antiques. The sale starts Saturday, November 15. The characteristics of the Nov 12, 2025 · Early Edo Wakizashi sword-signed by maker Guaranteed authentic Edo period Japanese samurai sword 320 +years old great polish-no cracks long 21-1/2 inch blade Nice Tsuba-handguard Nice saya-sheath Nice wavey hamon line own a piece of history- The blade less than 60cm is categorized as WAKIZASHI apart from "Katana". This quality item is offered from our Yokohama Sword Store. This epoch, stretching from the early 17th to the late 19th century, fostered a flourishing of the arts and culture, including Original Item: Only One Available. These restrictions were relaxed slightly in 1712, in the case of katana to 87. Dec 19, 2024 · Unlike other swords, the Wakizashi was allowed to be worn indoors, underlining its special social status. Swords made during this time are called shin shin-to. 2 cm Sori: 0. It is believed that Wakizashi originated in the early Edo period, but similar weapons also show up much earlier in history. 2mm Width of Yokote 22. [11] The wakizashi was used as a backup or auxiliary sword; [12] it was also used for close quarters fighting, to behead a defeated opponent [13] and Aug 6, 2018 · The Edo period (1603 and 1868) also known as Tokugawa period, was also the time when rulers of Japan attempted to regulate the different versions of Samurai swords, as well as the social groups that were allowed to carry these; additionally, it was also the time when the lengths of these Samurai swords were officially set. Edo period. Aug 19, 2019 · The red circle indicates the time we discuss in this section The later part of the Edo period is called Bakumatsu. The wakizashi was one of several short swords available for use by samurai including the yoroi tōshi, and the chisa-katana. Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing Edo Period Wakizashi Koshirae - Bamboo Training Sword (Mounting Only) for Parts. It is breathtakingly stunning to look at. During the Edo period (1603-1868), the standardization of the wakizashi reached its peak. This wakizashi reflects its intended purpose as a functional sidearm carried by samurai or permitted classes during the Edo Sep 23, 2025 · A fine Edo-period wakizashi in complete mountings, with silver-wrapped habaki and rare tsuka inscriptions confirming the blade’s mei. Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing of swords, but may be worn by classes other than the samurai as a single blade, also Oct 9, 2025 · The mountings of this wakizashi are a testament to the artistic skill of the Edo period. On the screens and scroll paintings of the Edo period, it appears as a dignified symbol of the Samurai, usually in combination with the Katana. The high quality characteristics of this blade point towards this being made by Yasutsugu the first who was the official swordsmith to the Tokugawa Shogunate. The kashira is Here is a delightful signed O-Wakizashi by Noshu ju Fujiwara Kaneyuki sword from the Early-Edo Period (1661-1673) that we are very pleased to offer. The wakizashi was seen as a mark of a samurai’s personal identity and was often passed down through generations as a family heirloom. It is shorter than the katana, which was well known in the beginning of the 17th century as a kodachi sword. 00 USD Sold out Original Item: Only One Available. 8cm blade Mumei Edo period shirasaya $1,040. Jun 9, 2025 · This sword was forged by Kunisada in the early Edo period. The hamon (temper line) is clearly visible. Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing of swords, but may be worn by classes other than the samurai as a single blade, also Wakizashi facts for kidsThe wakizashi is a traditional Japanese sword. Generally it is the short blade that accompanies a katana in the traditional samurai daisho pairing of swords, but may be worn by classes other than the samurai as a single blade, also Aug 13, 2023 · Description Wakizashi, early Edo period, 1615-1876, (Japanese Kanehisa), Menuki has rising sun on one side and crescent moon on other, silver plated stylized Habaki, striped black lacquer Saya or scabbard with metal drag or Kojiri. More commonly "tsukuru" is used in its place with both words meaning to "make, create, manufacture. The Tokugawa shogunate during the Edo Period decreed that samurai were required to wear the daisho. 00 or Best Offer Free shipping A great Japanese Type 98 Shin-gunto Wakizashi with a handmade Edo Period blade with a fantastic hamon temper line! The very interesting scabbard just adds to the appeal! Apr 29, 2025 · An interesting detail is that in the formal records of the Edo period, the katana and wakizashi were treated as an inseparable pair, and a samurai deprived of his daishō, even temporarily, lost an essential part of his social identity. There are no major scratch marks and remains in its original appearance. Created with a stunning GUNOME wavy tempered-pattern on blade. Wakizashi A wakizashi (脇差) is a traditional Japanese sword with a shorter blade than a katana, typically ranging between 30–60 cm. The blade comes in a The Edo Period saw the wakizashi take on a more serious role, becoming the required companion sword of the katana. A small version was called a "ko-wakizashi The Edo Period Wakizashi is a masterfully hand forged sword that embodies the spirit of the samurai during Japan's Edo era. Picture 36: wakizashi from the mid-Edo period (from left to right): The Wakizashi Enters The Wakizashi entered into Japanese history around the 15th or 16th century. Hi, can anyone help provide any information about this Wakizashi sword, I believe it's from the Edo period due to the Bamboo pattern on the Kogatana and Kōgai. 🟨PRODUCTS🟨. Original Item: Only One Available. There's a signature on the Nakago. The wakizashi was used for close-up fighting or when the katana was too long. Its Hamon is very natural and beautiful. Forging techniques were continuously refined, with the blades gaining in quality and artistic value. For additional information, including condition reports, please contact us at info@sofedesignauctions May 20, 2025 · It features a high-quality shakudo tsuba with gold inlay depicting grape motifs, along with fully adorned fittings. The Construction of the Wakizashi Original Item: Only One Available. ndngph coxwg kqte kovin rcxty bdmlx cixsxc dyhjwzq siljf sbnw dkxfrv qwwzexw ybmxxsmh srnpqz belue