TS101 Wakizashi Sword SHIMOHARA 1500s - NBTHK Hozon

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Item# TS101
Antique Wakizashi mid-sized sword in Ornate Mounting 
Muromachi Period 1500s
NBTHK Hozon certificated (Well Preserved certificate)

Swordsmith: Shimohara

A quality sword from SAMURAI STORE Tokyo.
The blade less than 60cm are categorized as WAKIZASHI apart from "Katana". 

Antique Wakizashi Sword – Shimohara School, Musashi Province, Late Muromachi Period (1500s) – NBTHK Hozon Certificate

Signature: Mumei (Unsigned), Attributed to Shimohara
Province: Musashi (Present-day Tokyo Region)
Period: Late Muromachi Period, 1573–1596 CE
Certification: NBTHK Hozon Token (Sword Worthy of Preservation)
Blade Construction: Shinogi-zukuri, Ubu Nakago (Original, Unshortened Tang)
Hamon: Gunome-midare with Chōji Elements and Togari-ba
Sword Type: Wakizashi (Short Sword)

Historical Background – The Shimohara smith of Musashi Province

This antique Japanese wakizashi is attributed by the NBTHK (Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords) to the Shimohara School, a historically significant group of swordsmiths active in Musashi Province, corresponding to the modern Tokyo region.

The Shimohara School emerged during the late Muromachi period and became one of the most important swordmaking traditions associated with Musashi Province. It is particularly noteworthy as a rare and historically significant school of Koto (Old Sword) production in the region that would eventually become the political center of Japan.

The school's history is closely connected with the turbulent Sengoku period, when the powerful Hōjō clan dominated much of the Kantō region. The Shimohara tradition subsequently continued into the Edo period, when Musashi Province became the seat of the Tokugawa shogunate.

As a surviving example of this regional swordmaking tradition, this wakizashi represents an intriguing connection to the military history of eastern Japan during the final decades of the Age of Warring States.

Blade Characteristics and Craftsmanship

The blade features an attractive and distinctive Gunome-midare hamon, incorporating relatively widely spaced Chōji-like formations and sharply pointed Togari-ba elements.

The tempering displays fine Nie crystals and delicate Sunagashi activity, creating subtle flowing patterns within the hardened edge.

Of particular interest is the presence of Utsuri, a subtle shadow-like metallurgical effect visible above the hamon, reminiscent of characteristics associated with the classical Rai School tradition.

These varied activities give the blade considerable visual interest and reflect the sophisticated techniques employed by swordsmiths of the late Muromachi period.

The blade retains its Ubu Nakago (original, unshortened tang), an important feature for collectors who appreciate swords that preserve their original construction and historical integrity.

Decorative Koshirae – Elegant Black and Gold Mountings

The wakizashi is accompanied by an attractive traditional Japanese koshirae, distinguished by its refined black-and-gold decorative scheme.

The black lacquered saya (scabbard) features delicate gold-colored decoration, while the matching fittings incorporate intricate ornamental details.

Particularly striking is the kozuka, decorated with a series of gold-colored floral motifs, complemented by another fitting featuring an elaborate dragon design.

The tsuka (handle) is wrapped in black cord over white samegawa (ray skin), creating a classic and elegant contrast.

Together, these decorative elements give the sword a sophisticated appearance, making it equally appealing as a historical collectible and as an example of traditional Japanese sword mounting craftsmanship.

NBTHK Hozon Certification

This wakizashi is accompanied by an authentic NBTHK Hozon Token Certificate (No. 3039029), issued on June 3, 2026.

The certificate officially attributes the blade to the Shimohara School and confirms its recognition as a Japanese sword worthy of preservation.

For collectors interested in authentic Koto-period swords, regional swordmaking traditions, and the history of the Sengoku era, this wakizashi offers an appealing combination of historical significance, distinctive blade characteristics, original tang, and decorative koshirae.

This katana is available for viewing at SAMURAI STORE's showroom in Tokyo, Japan. We welcome collectors to arrange a private appointment to examine the blade and appreciate its craftsmanship in person.

Also Comes With:
Standard Sword Bag

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