Blade for a Sword (<i>Katana</i>) with Mounting (<i>Shikomizue</i>)

Yokoyama Kōzukedaijō Sukesada

blade, dated February 1677; mounting, 19th century · Steel, wood, cherry-blossom bark, brass, lacquer · Arms and Armor

The tang of this sword bears the signature of its maker, the famous swordsmith Yokoyama Kōzukedaijō Sukesada, and the date of its completion, February 1677. Dated works by this master are rare. The mounting, which dates from the nineteenth century, is in the form of a walking stick, disguising the weapon.

Artist

Yokoyama Kōzukedaijō Sukesada

Date

blade, dated February 1677; mounting, 19th century

Medium

Steel, wood, cherry-blossom bark, brass, lacquer

Culture

Japanese

Department

Arms and Armor

Credit line

Gift of Etsuko O. Morris and John H. Morris Jr., 2018