Changes

It is not possible to talk about Samurai without talking about their swords. During the ages they radically changed in form and, at the end, even in meaning.  

It is not possible to talk about Samurai without talking about their swords. During the ages they radically changed in form and, at the end, even in meaning.  

(Schiller, Guido)

(Schiller, Guido)

 

Another thing we have to consider when fixing a date for a Japanese sword is the '''Eto'''. Eto originally is a Chinese calender invented in the ancient period. It consists of ten ordinal signs and twelve zodiacal symbols and the combination of both characters makes a cycle of sixty years, the '''[[Sexegenary cycle]]'''. In Japan the Eto was used not only to count time by years but also to show time by hours (In this case one day is divided into twelve fractions.) and direction. Dates based on Eto can often be seen on the '''Nakago''' of the Japanese sword.

Another thing we have to consider when fixing a date for a japanese sword is  

the '''Eto'''.

Eto originally is a Chinese calender invented in the ancient period. It consists of ten ordinal signs and twelve zodiacal symbols and the combination of both characters makes a cycle of sixty years, the '''Sexagenary cycle'''. In Japan the Eto was used not only to count time by years but also to show time by hours (In this case one day is divided into twelve fractions.) and direction. Dates based on Eto can often be seen on the '''Nakago''' of the Japanese sword.

A third, very important thing to know about the japanese sword is the way  

A third, very important thing to know about the japanese sword is the way the schools were placed along the eight main roads of ancient japan.

the schools were placed along the eight main roads of ancient japan.

In Japan there was a division of the local administration called '''Go Kinai''' Shichi Do. Go Ki consists of the capital Kyo (Yamashiro) and four neighbouring provinces. Shichi Do means the provinces along the seven main roads spreading throughout the country.

In Japan there was a division of the local administration called '''Go Kinai''' Shichi Do. Go Ki consists of the capital Kyo (Yamashiro) and four neighbouring provinces. Shichi Do means the provinces along the seven main roads spreading throughout the country.

There are eight provinces in the Sanyo Do, eight provinces in the San-in Do, six provinces in the Nankai Do, fifteen provinces in the Tokai Do, thirteen provinces in the Tosan Do, seven provinces in the Hokuriku Do and nine provinces with two islands in the Saikai Do.

There are eight provinces in the Sanyo Do, eight provinces in the San-in Do, six provinces in the Nankai Do, fifteen provinces in the Tokai Do, thirteen provinces in the Tosan Do, seven provinces in the [[Hokuriku|Hokuriku Do]] and nine provinces with two islands in the Saikai Do.

In Kantei (Attribution), it is very important to know the Go Kinai Shichi Do as the smiths of the same region are to show the regional influence in their work. Therefore the old administrative division is still used in studying the Japanese sword.  

In Kantei (Attribution), it is very important to know the Go Kinai Shichi Do as the smiths of the same region are to show the regional influence in their work. Therefore the old administrative division is still used in studying the Japanese sword.  

*Echigo (Niigata), Sado (Niigata).  

*Echigo (Niigata), Sado (Niigata).  

*Saikai Do: Chikuzen (Fukuoka), Chikugo (Fukuoka), Buzen (Fukuoka and Oh¬ita), Bungo (Fukuoka and Oh-ita), Hizen (Saga and Nagasaki), Higo (Kumamoto), Hiyuga (Miyazaki), Ohsumi (Kagoshima), Satsuma (Kagoshima), Iki (Nagasaki), Tsushima (Nagasaki).

*Saikai Do: Chikuzen (Fukuoka), Chikugo (Fukuoka), Buzen (Fukuoka and Ôita), Bungo (Fukuoka and Ôita), Hizen (Saga and Nagasaki), Higo (Kumamoto), Hyûga (Miyazaki), Ôsumi (Kagoshima), Satsuma (Kagoshima), Iki (Nagasaki), Tsushima (Nagasaki).

(Nagayama Kokan, Token Kantei Dokuhon)  

(Nagayama Kokan, Token Kantei Dokuhon)  

    

    

* '''Heian''' Era (794-1184)

===Heian Era (794-1184)===

   

   

When '''Kammu Tenno''' came to power, he moved the capital from '''Nara''' to '''Kyoto'''. The whole era was characterized by the prevalent tendency toward japanizing the Chinese influences that had came over the sea during the previous centuries. The method of forging a sword with an softer inner core wrapped into an harder steel one was developed during this period. The most ancient swords with this features belongs to the Ko-Bizen tradition and are dated around 950 a.D.  This is the time which is going to change to a Samurai government ( Genji and Heike ) from an aristocrat government. After the war happened in the middle stage of Heian Era, the battle style changed. That is, they began to fight on  horseback.

When '''Kammu Tenno''' came to power, he moved the capital from '''Nara''' to '''Kyoto'''. The whole era was characterized by the prevalent tendency toward japanizing the Chinese influences that had came over the sea during the previous centuries. The method of forging a sword with an softer inner core wrapped into an harder steel one was developed during this period. The most ancient swords with this features belongs to the Ko-Bizen tradition and are dated around 950 a.D.  This is the time which is going to change to a Samurai government ( Genji and Heike ) from an aristocrat government. After the war happened in the middle stage of Heian Era, the battle style changed. That is, they began to fight on  horseback.

'''Amakuni''', traditionally belived to be the maker of '''Kogarasumaru''' or ‘Little Crow’, the first curved NipponTo, now in the Imperial Household Collection. According to this legend Amakuni was the Emperor’s swordsmith. One day he saw his lord’s army returning from a battle and the Emperor ignored him instead to give the usual cheers for the good work made with the blades. Then he noticed that many soldiers had  broken swords. They where chokuto or straight swords. He was so disappointed of this that he avoid to eat food and drink water for a week, studying a better way to make swords. According to the legend '''Inari''', the Kami of swordsmakers, appeared in a dream to Amakuni, teaching him how to wrap a soft steel core in an harder one, and how a curved edge is more suitable to cuts and more resistant to shocks  than the previous straight one.  

'''Amakuni''', traditionally belived to be the maker of '''Kogarasumaru''' or ‘Little Crow’, the first curved NipponTo, now in the Imperial Household Collection. According to this legend Amakuni was the Emperor’s swordsmith. One day he saw his lord’s army returning from a battle and the Emperor ignored him instead to give the usual cheers for the good work made with the blades. Then he noticed that many soldiers had  broken swords. They where chokuto or straight swords. He was so disappointed of this that he avoid to eat food and drink water for a week, studying a better way to make swords. According to the legend '''Inari''', the Kami of swordsmakers, appeared in a dream to Amakuni, teaching him how to wrap a soft steel core in an harder one, and how a curved edge is more suitable to cuts and more resistant to shocks  than the previous straight one.  

The day after Amakuni made Kogarasu Maru, the ancestor of all NihonTo.   

The day after Amakuni made Kogarasu Maru, the ancestor of all NihonTo.   

Heian was the era of tachi. In this period became customary to sign the blades. The oldest signed blade is probably one tachi forged by '''Sanjo Munechika'''. The oldest tachi with date as well as the name of the smith engraved on the tang is from 1159 and was made by Naminohira Yukimasa.  The shape of a Japanese sword ( Tachi ) in this age is Mihaba ( width ) near the Nakago is wider than that of near Kissaki, so to speak, like a man who standing with keeping his feet. Kissaki is small ( '''Ko-Kissaki''' ) and '''Sori''' ( curvature ) looks like suddenly fall to the ridge side at right above Nakago. But Sori near Monouchi is little. This shape is refined in a sense. '''Hawatari''' (length ) is about 75/80cm. This size is fit to chop the enemy on the ground with riding on Japanese horses. The horses in this age were not like present ones but small and massive. Moreover, it fit to stab the enemy on the ground  because the curvature near the point is little and Nakago (tang) is short compared with the percentage of the blade. Hamon is Sugu, straight.

Heian was the era of tachi. In this period became customary to sign the blades. The oldest signed blade is probably one tachi forged by '''[[Sanjo Munechika|Sanjô Munechika]]'''. The oldest tachi with date as well as the name of the smith engraved on the tang is from 1159 and was made by Naminohira Yukimasa.  The shape of a Japanese sword ( Tachi ) in this age is Mihaba ( width ) near the Nakago is wider than that of near Kissaki, so to speak, like a man who standing with keeping his feet. Kissaki is small ( '''Ko-Kissaki''' ) and '''Sori''' ( curvature ) looks like suddenly fall to the ridge side at right above Nakago. But Sori near Monouchi is little. This shape is refined in a sense. '''Hawatari''' (length ) is about 75/80cm. This size is fit to chop the enemy on the ground with riding on Japanese horses. The horses in this age were not like present ones but small and massive. Moreover, it fit to stab the enemy on the ground  because the curvature near the point is little and Nakago (tang) is short compared with the percentage of the blade. Hamon is Sugu, straight.

During the Heian era two clans, the '''Minamoto''' (Genji) and the '''Taira''' (Heike), raised in power and importance. The end of the era is marked by the battle in Dan-No-Ura, where these two clans clashed together.  

During the Heian era two clans, the '''Minamoto''' (Genji) and the '''Taira''' (Heike), raised in power and importance. The end of the era is marked by the battle in Dan-No-Ura, where these two clans clashed together.  

We have here to remember another legend, still source of debates,  that said in this battle was lost the Ancestral Sword, '''Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi''' , part of the ‘Three Jewels’ the most important treasure still in possession of His Imperial Majesty.  

We have here to remember another legend, still source of debates,  that said in this battle was lost the Ancestral Sword, '''Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi''' , part of the ‘Three Jewels’ the most important treasure still in possession of His Imperial Majesty.  

This ancestral sword was found into the tail of a dragon by the Kami

This ancestral sword was found into the tail of a dragon by the kami

'''Susano-no-Mikoto''' , and was, together with the mirror and the claw-like jewel, the symbol of the Imperial Power. Accordingly to  this legend it was substituted with another sword, the same we can see in the Imperial Treasure today, other sources said the sword lost was a fake, and the original one still remain in the Imperial Treasure.  

[[Susa no O no Mikoto]], and was, together with the mirror and the claw-like jewel, the symbol of the Imperial Power. Accordingly to  this legend it was substituted with another sword, the same we can see in the Imperial Treasure today, other sources said the sword lost was a fake, and the original one still remain in the Imperial Treasure.

*'''Kamakura''' Era (1184-1333)

===Kamakura Era (1184-1333)===

   

   

After defeating the Taira clan at Dan-No-Ura, Minamoto no Yorimoto  moved his shogunate to Kamakura. Emperor Gotoba, the formal ruler, remained in Kyoto. This also marked the beginning of the rule of the samurai class. Kamakura became the cultural capitol, and swordsmiths from all over the country gathered there. These are the days of '''Masamune''' and his  

After defeating the Taira clan at Dan-No-Ura, Minamoto no Yorimoto  moved his shogunate to Kamakura. Emperor Gotoba, the formal ruler, remained in Kyoto. This also marked the beginning of the rule of the samurai class. Kamakura became the cultural capitol, and swordsmiths from all over the country gathered there. These are the days of '''Masamune''' and his  

Kamakura swords can be divided into three sub-periods :

Kamakura swords can be divided into three sub-periods :

* Early Kamakura (1184-1231) :

====Early Kamakura (1184-1231)====

In this period, the Kamakura shogunate and court nobles in '''Kyoto''' scrambled for political power. And internal trouble broken out in the Kamakura shogunate. Therefore, demand of swords increased all over the country. This period is a transitional period from the refined shape in the last stage of Heian Era to the mighty shape in next period.

In this period, the Kamakura shogunate and court nobles in '''Kyoto''' scrambled for political power. And internal trouble broken out in the Kamakura shogunate. Therefore, demand of swords increased all over the country. This period is a transitional period from the refined shape in the last stage of Heian Era to the mighty shape in next period.

Sori ( curvature ) does not look like suddenly fall to the ridge side at right above Nakago and the center of Sori moved upper in comparison with the previous period.  

Sori ( curvature ) does not look like suddenly fall to the ridge side at right above Nakago and the center of Sori moved upper in comparison with the previous period.  

Swords made in '''Nioi''' did not exist yet.

Swords made in '''Nioi''' did not exist yet.

* Middle Kamakura (1232 - 1287) :

====Middle Kamakura (1232 - 1287)====

After the war happened in 1232, Hojo family held real power and Kamakura shogunate reinforced their authority. Kamakura became the center of Samurai culture and the demand of sword increased. Kamakura shogunate called in some swordsmiths who have superior skill from Kyoto and Okayama. They moved with family and Kamakura became the center place of the production of swords. The shapes in this period did not remain copies of the older period but changed to be more mighty.

After the war happened in 1232, Hojo family held real power and Kamakura shogunate reinforced their authority. Kamakura became the center of Samurai culture and the demand of sword increased. Kamakura shogunate called in some swordsmiths who have superior skill from Kyoto and Okayama. They moved with family and Kamakura became the center place of the production of swords. The shapes in this period did not remain copies of the older period but changed to be more mighty.

The width became to be greater, but there is no difference between the width near the Kissaki and near Nakago. Thickness also became greater. Moreover, Kissaki became to be  

The width became to be greater, but there is no difference between the width near the Kissaki and near Nakago. Thickness also became greater. Moreover, Kissaki became to be  

Hawatari is about 25cm.

Hawatari is about 25cm.

   

   

* Late Kamakura (1288 -1333) :

====Late Kamakura (1288 -1333)====

The Mongolian invasions attempt of 1274 and 1281 greatly influenced the Japanese sword. Until this period the method of battle in Japan was based on single duels, with rituals as  exchanging names and genealogies each other before fight with no organized formations and tactics. On the contrary Mongolians attacked suddenly in organized formations following tactics. Moreover, their armor were tough and they used weapons which Japanese have never seen before as gunpowder hand-grenades and rockets. Their armors were light and they could move fast. After that the Japanese armors became to be lighter and sword's shape  changed to make them able to chop the light armor without being entrapped and then broken in them.  

The Mongolian invasions attempt of 1274 and 1281 greatly influenced the Japanese sword. Until this period the method of battle in Japan was based on single duels, with rituals as  exchanging names and genealogies each other before fight with no organized formations and tactics. On the contrary Mongolians attacked suddenly in organized formations following tactics. Moreover, their armor were tough and they used weapons which Japanese have never seen before as [[gunpowder]] hand-grenades and rockets. Their armors were light and they could move fast. After that the Japanese armors became to be lighter and sword's shape  changed to make them able to chop the light armor without being entrapped and then broken in them.  

The former blade was Hamaguri-ba. When you chop a hard thing, Hamaguri-ba is suitable, but the armors began to be light and thin in this period. So the blade in this period became to be thin compared with the one of former period. And Kissaki became to be  

The former blade was Hamaguri-ba. When you chop a hard thing, Hamaguri-ba is suitable, but the armors began to be light and thin in this period. So the blade in this period became to be thin compared with the one of former period. And Kissaki became to be  

'''Chu-Kissaki''' (medium length). That is, Kissaki got longer because when Ikubi-Kissaki was damaged, no room for restoration was available. When you stab the enemy, Chu-Kissaki is suitable. Ikubi-Kissaki was wider then Chu-Kissaki. '''Mihaba''' ( width ) becomes to be narrow. This shape looks like the refined one of the first stage of Kamakura, but Kissaki in this period is bigger and the center of Sori moved up. In this way, if the edge became to be thin, strength of the blade decrease. Therefore, you have to make Mihaba wide and if Mihaba become wide, Kissaki become to be bigger. The peak like this change is Odanbira in the next Northern and Southern Dynasties.  

'''Chu-Kissaki''' (medium length). That is, Kissaki got longer because when Ikubi-Kissaki was damaged, no room for restoration was available. When you stab the enemy, Chu-Kissaki is suitable. Ikubi-Kissaki was wider then Chu-Kissaki. '''Mihaba''' ( width ) becomes to be narrow. This shape looks like the refined one of the first stage of Kamakura, but Kissaki in this period is bigger and the center of Sori moved up. In this way, if the edge became to be thin, strength of the blade decrease. Therefore, you have to make Mihaba wide and if Mihaba become wide, Kissaki become to be bigger. The peak like this change is Odanbira in the next Northern and Southern Dynasties.  

The Mongolian Invasions influenced Hamon, too. Obusa-Choji and Juka-Choji was giving way to Choji-ha based on Sugu-ha or Kataochi-gunome, because the blade with very wide Ha is easy to break. Swordsmiths realized it from experience. Ha is harder than the other parts. If the harder part hold the most of the blade, the blade is easy to break because the blade can not absorb the shock. And the top of '''Hi''' (grooves) invariably stop lower.  This is made to leave room for repair when Kissaki is damaged.

The Mongolian Invasions influenced Hamon, too. Obusa-Choji and Juka-Choji was giving way to Choji-ha based on Sugu-ha or Kataochi-gunome, because the blade with very wide Ha is easy to break. Swordsmiths realized it from experience. Ha is harder than the other parts. If the harder part hold the most of the blade, the blade is easy to break because the blade can not absorb the shock. And the top of '''Hi''' (grooves) invariably stop lower.  This is made to leave room for repair when Kissaki is damaged.

In this period, Tanto increased in  number and there is  characteristic shape. That is, Nakago is curved.  This Tanto is called "Mete-zashi ". Samurai put on this Tanto when they wore armor and they put it on the right-side of their waist, handle facing right to be easy unsheathed when armor were in contact with each other, as in a grappling close combat is expected. This Mete-zashi is to stab enemy through a crevice of armors or cut off his neck, so Mihaba is narrow.  

In this period, Tanto increased in  number and there is  characteristic shape. That is, Nakago is curved.  This Tanto is called "Mete-zashi ". Samurai put on this Tanto when they wore armor and they put it on the right-side of their waist, handle facing right to be easy unsheathed when armor were in contact with each other, as in a grappling close combat is expected. This Mete-zashi is to stab enemy through a crevice of armors or cut off his neck, so Mihaba is narrow.

 

*'''Nambokucho''' Era (1334-1393)  

===Nambokucho Era (1334-1393)===

Emperor '''Godaigo''' in 1334  started a rebellion to overthrew the shogunate in the attempt of restore the power of the imperial court and gained the control of the country. But after only two years '''Ashikaga Takauji''' raised his own Emperor (Komyo) to power. The power split in two courts : Godaigo held court in Yoshino and Komyo built his government in Kyoto. The north (Nan) and south (Hoku) courts fought for nearly  60 years giving the name to this period : ‘the Courts of the South and of the North’. Years of continuous war rised the needs for swords and changed the shape of the blades. The method of battle changed to a battle between group and group. The battle formation became that foot soldiers surround a leader riding on a horse. As the footsoldier raised in importance once again, a very long sword, more suitable for this new horseback fighting style was created. This long Tachi was for driving away enemy, so the length was from 85cm to over 1m was made. Some of these '''Odachi''' or '''Nodachi''' or '''Odanbira''' arrived to a length of 120-150 cm.  The longer ones were used by footsoldiers to cut horses legs and open gaps into enemy spearmen lines. Mihaba of these Tachi were wide, so the Kasane were thin to lighten the weight. A thin Kasane  is the characteristic in this period. Therefore, when looking at Nanbokucho Tachi to understand it is of actual period, you need check Kasane. If Kasane of the blade is thick, doubts about authenticity arise.

Emperor '''Godaigo''' in 1334  started a rebellion to overthrew the shogunate in the attempt of restore the power of the imperial court and gained the control of the country. But after only two years '''Ashikaga Takauji''' raised his own Emperor (Komyo) to power. The power split in two courts : Godaigo held court in Yoshino and Komyo built his government in Kyoto. The north (Nan) and south (Hoku) courts fought for nearly  60 years giving the name to this period : ‘the Courts of the South and of the North’. Years of continuous war rised the needs for swords and changed the shape of the blades. The method of battle changed to a battle between group and group. The battle formation became that foot soldiers surround a leader riding on a horse. As the footsoldier raised in importance once again, a very long sword, more suitable for this new horseback fighting style was created. This long Tachi was for driving away enemy, so the length was from 85cm to over 1m was made. Some of these '''Odachi''' or '''Nodachi''' or '''Odanbira''' arrived to a length of 120-150 cm.  The longer ones were used by footsoldiers to cut horses legs and open gaps into enemy spearmen lines. Mihaba of these Tachi were wide, so the Kasane were thin to lighten the weight. A thin Kasane  is the characteristic in this period. Therefore, when looking at Nanbokucho Tachi to understand it is of actual period, you need check Kasane. If Kasane of the blade is thick, doubts about authenticity arise.

As Mihaba is wide, the Kissaki become to be greater as a logical consequence.  This is called O-Kissaki. This type of sword was too long to wear it , so usually the Samurai on horse give his Odachi to a follower for carrying and he grasp and draw it when needed. Therefore, if the follower is killed or driven away, the Tachi becomes to be useless.  This is the reason because of a smaller Tachi ('''Kodachi''') was carried hanging from the obi of the armor. This need was another reason for the rise of the '''Uchigatana'''  that became to be made in this period. The length is about 70 cm and it was used  together with the longer Tachi.  All blades followed the fashion to be gigantic as Tachi were. Tanto in this period have peculiar characteristic. The length is about 35cm and they were made by '''Hira-zukuri'''. Mihaba is wide and Kasane is thin. They curved at middle of the blade. They are called '''Sunnobi Tanto''' and they remains Tanto even if legally, for their length  they should be called Wakizashi. Naginata and Yari begun longer as well to fight against this longer Tachi. Fighting on a horse became to be disadvantageous. These too big blades all disappeared in a short period, soon after the end of the period. In effect the matter was formally resolved in a compromise, but Ashikaga and the north court were the factual winners.  Someone suggests that some schools related to the Southern Court went extinct because of the defeat (the '''Hosho''' school founded by '''Sadamune''' son of '''Masamune'''). No strong evidences are given, anyway.   

As Mihaba is wide, the Kissaki become to be greater as a logical consequence.  This is called O-Kissaki. This type of sword was too long to wear it , so usually the Samurai on horse give his Odachi to a follower for carrying and he grasp and draw it when needed. Therefore, if the follower is killed or driven away, the Tachi becomes to be useless.  This is the reason because of a smaller Tachi ('''Kodachi''') was carried hanging from the obi of the armor. This need was another reason for the rise of the '''Uchigatana'''  that became to be made in this period. The length is about 70 cm and it was used  together with the longer Tachi.  All blades followed the fashion to be gigantic as Tachi were. Tanto in this period have peculiar characteristic. The length is about 35cm and they were made by '''Hira-zukuri'''. Mihaba is wide and Kasane is thin. They curved at middle of the blade. They are called '''Sunnobi Tanto''' and they remains Tanto even if legally, for their length  they should be called Wakizashi. Naginata and Yari begun longer as well to fight against this longer Tachi. Fighting on a horse became to be disadvantageous. These too big blades all disappeared in a short period, soon after the end of the period. In effect the matter was formally resolved in a compromise, but Ashikaga and the north court were the factual winners.  Someone suggests that some schools related to the Southern Court went extinct because of the defeat (the '''Hosho''' school founded by '''Sadamune''' son of '''Masamune'''). No strong evidences are given, anyway.   

   

   

*'''Muromachi''' Era (1394-1595)  

===Muromachi Era (1394-1595)===

After the dynastic war a short period of peace followed. But the Ashikaga Shogun was  “de facto” powerless, and the true power was held by the Daimyo.  

After the dynastic war a short period of peace followed. But the Ashikaga Shogun was  “de facto” powerless, and the true power was held by the Daimyo.  

This very dangerous situation unavoidably left room for troubles. The battle for the true power began in 1467 with the so-called Onin-war  That started the Sengoku-jidai -  

This very dangerous situation unavoidably left room for troubles. The battle for the true power began in 1467 with the so-called Onin-war  That started the Sengoku-jidai -  

finally '''Tokugawa Ieyasu''' managed to gain the power, and pacify the country.  

finally '''Tokugawa Ieyasu''' managed to gain the power, and pacify the country.  

In Muromachi Era samurai gradually began to use Uchigatana instead of Tachi. They still used Tachi in this stage and the shapes looks like the first stage of Kamakura Era, that is, Mihaba is narrow and Kissaki is small. But Sori (curvature) is different. In Kamakura Era, the center of Sori is near Nakago or little upper, but the center of Sori in Muromachi Era moved ahead. Curved around '''Monouchi''', the last part of the blade toward the point,  is a characteristic often found of sword in Muromachi Era. This curvature is called '''Sakizori'''.

In Muromachi Era samurai gradually began to use Uchigatana instead of Tachi. They still used Tachi in this stage and the shapes looks like the first stage of Kamakura Era, that is, Mihaba is narrow and Kissaki is small. But Sori (curvature) is different. In Kamakura Era, the center of Sori is near Nakago or little upper, but the center of Sori in Muromachi Era moved ahead. Curved around '''Monouchi''', the last part of the blade toward the point,  is a characteristic often found of sword in Muromachi Era. This curvature is called '''Sakizori'''.

This is a transitional period from Tachi to Katana, so starting from now it is hard to distinguish between the two types. Sword smith made both, and often the shape is not enough to make the difference. The only way to distinguish in between is to watch at the '''Mei''', the swordsmith’s  signature. The Mei must face out from the body when worn. Tachi were worn edge down and Uchigatana edge up. So the position of the Mei on the tang says us which type of blade it is. If no signature is present, the difference is often merely in the mounting type.  

This is a transitional period from Tachi to Katana, so starting from now it is hard to distinguish between the two types. Sword smith made both, and often the shape is not enough to make the difference. The only way to distinguish in between is to watch at the '''Mei''', the swordsmith’s  signature. The Mei must face out from the body when worn. Tachi were worn edge down and Uchigatana edge up. So the position of the Mei on the tang tells us which type of blade it is. If no signature is present, the difference is often merely in the mounting type.

 

 

 

The swords of this era can be divided to three groups:  

The swords of this era can be divided to three groups:  

* Early Muromachi  (1394-1466)  

====Early Muromachi  (1394-1466)====

As the armies grew, the mounted soldiers became ever rarer, and the main force of armies consisted of foot soldiers. Even if many Tachi were still made, the time of the Katana was already dawning. Shorter blades were easier to carry and faster to draw. The centre of curvature of the blade moved to the center as the blades were increasingly designed for a fast draw and to be used on foot. Most swords were 69,7-72,7 cm in length and narrowed towards the point.  

As the armies grew, the mounted soldiers became ever rarer, and the main force of armies consisted of foot soldiers. Even if many Tachi were still made, the time of the Katana was already dawning. Shorter blades were easier to carry and faster to draw. The centre of curvature of the blade moved to the center as the blades were increasingly designed for a fast draw and to be used on foot. Most swords were 69,7-72,7 cm in length and narrowed towards the point.  

* Middle Muromachi  (1467-1554)  

====Middle Muromachi  (1467-1554)====

As the mobility of troops became strategically more important, the swords got even shorter. Most swords manufactured in this period were 60-65 cm long and had the same width all the length of the blade. Such blades were suitable for chopping with one hand and for quick-draw. These Katana are referred to as '''Katate-uchi'''. Katate means one hand. There is no difference of width between '''Monouchi''' and '''Habakimoto''' and the shape has a strong appearance. Nakago became to be short to be suitable for one-hand grip.

As the mobility of troops became strategically more important, the swords got even shorter. Most swords manufactured in this period were 60-65 cm long and had the same width all the length of the blade. Such blades were suitable for chopping with one hand and for quick-draw. These Katana are referred to as '''Katate-uchi'''. Katate means one hand. There is no difference of width between '''Monouchi''' and '''Habakimoto''' and the shape has a strong appearance. Nakago became to be short to be suitable for one-hand grip.

The Katana is replacing the Tachi. The ever-increasing need for swords also meant that not all swords were manufactured to the same high standards as before. The term  

The Katana is replacing the Tachi. The ever-increasing need for swords also meant that not all swords were manufactured to the same high standards as before. The term  

Wakizashi also became to be made and the length are about 40cm. They were  

Wakizashi also became to be made and the length are about 40cm. They were  

made in '''Hira-zukuri''' and have no Sori. Shinto deities and Buddhas or Sanskrit characters engraved on the blade. These engravings are called '''Horimono'''. This type of Wakizashi is characteristic of in this period.

made in '''Hira-zukuri''' and have no Sori. Shinto deities and Buddhas or Sanskrit characters engraved on the blade. These engravings are called '''Horimono'''. This type of Wakizashi is characteristic of in this period.

A particular type of Tanto, called '''Yoroi-doshi''' (armor-piercing began to be made. Yoroi-doshi is to stab enemy through a crevice of armor and the cross-section triangular. Very thick but not broad, with a very strong Kissaki, not very long.  

A particular type of Tanto, called '''Yoroi-doshi''' (armor-piercing began to be made. Yoroi-doshi is to stab enemy through a crevice of armor and the cross-section triangular. Very thick but not broad, with a very strong Kissaki, not very long.

 

* Late Muromachi  (1555-1595)  

====Late Muromachi  (1555-1595)====

In the 12th year of Tenmon, a.D. 1543, the face of warfare in Japan was changed forever. This year the Portuguese first introduced firearms to Japan ,named Tanegashima '''Teppo'''  from the isle in the southern Kyushu where the first portugueses casually landed.  Japanese Daimyo immediately realized the potential of such a weapon, and soon Japan begun the country with the higher number of arquebuses all around the world. A Teppo is very effective and needs much less training in front of a '''Yumi''' the Japanese bow.  

In the 12th year of Tenmon, a.D. 1543, the face of warfare in Japan was changed forever. This year the Portuguese first introduced firearms to Japan ,named Tanegashima '''Teppo'''  from the isle in the southern Kyushu where the first portugueses casually landed.  Japanese Daimyo immediately realized the potential of such a weapon, and soon Japan begun the country with the higher number of arquebuses all around the world. A Teppo is very effective and needs much less training in front of a '''Yumi''' the Japanese bow.  

Even if the early guns were not accurate and it took a long time to reload,  

Even if the early guns were not accurate and it took a long time to reload,  

Into the late Muromachi we find the artistic revolution of the '''Momoyama'''  

Into the late Muromachi we find the artistic revolution of the '''Momoyama'''  

Era, when the Katana finally replaced the Tachi as main sword of the Samurai.  

Era, when the Katana finally replaced the Tachi as main sword of the Samurai.  

The difference between a Tachi and a Katana is, to make an incredibly difficult

The difference between a Tachi and a Katana is, to make an incredibly difficult thing the easiest possible, the position of the '''Mei''' (signature). The signature must be on the part of the blade that faces outside. So as Tachi is worn edge-down and Katana is worn edge-up, the signatures are placed in opposite positions.  

thing the easiest possible, the position of the '''Mei''' (signature). The signature

In absence of a signature the mounting is often the only difference between the two types of swords.  

must be on the part of the blade that faces outside. So as Tachi is worn

edge-down and Katana is worn edge-up, the signatures are placed in opposite

positions.  

In absence of a signature the mounting is often the only difference between

the two types of swords.  

Obviously this change was more a slow evolution rather then a  

Obviously this change was more a slow evolution rather then a  

sudden revolution. So we have a lot of blades that are "in between"

sudden revolution. So we have a lot of blades that are "in between"

that can't be easily put in a specific category.

that can't be easily put in a specific category.

The wearing of '''DaiSho''' (Daito/Shoto,long/short sword, meaning '''Katana''' and Wakizashi) begun

The wearing of '''DaiSho''' (Daito/Shoto,long/short sword, meaning '''Katana''' and Wakizashi) begun

in this period. Basically a backup blade was always carried by Samurai, but  

in this period. Basically a backup blade was always carried by Samurai, but the fashion of having a matched pair of mountings for main and backup sword started here.

the fashion of having a matched pair of mountings for main and backup sword

This is a very crucial change in the japanese sword history and, as already said, is the result of an evolution. To explain the (slow) switching from the

started here.

This is a very crucial change in the japanese sword history and, as already

said, is the result of an evolution. To explain the (slow) switching from the

ancient fashion to the new one we've to deal with the meaning of the term

ancient fashion to the new one we've to deal with the meaning of the term

'''Wakizashi'''. It's made by two words "Waki" (side, secondary) and "Zashi"  

'''Wakizashi'''. It's made by two words "Waki" (side, secondary) and "Zashi"  

In the sword context it means "to insert between the Obi", i.e. a sword  

In the sword context it means "to insert between the Obi", i.e. a sword  

to be worn inserted between the Obi. '''Tachi''' requires another verb, "Haku",  

to be worn inserted between the Obi. '''Tachi''' requires another verb, "Haku",  

to wear "hanging" from the waist. Backup swords were carried by Samurai from

to wear "hanging" from the waist. Backup swords were carried by Samurai from the very beginning of their history, and they were usually inserted  

the very beginning of their history, and they were usually inserted  

"between the Obi". So Wakizashi in ancient times referred to any sword that was secondary to the Tachi and worn inserted in the Obi with no reference to its lenght. In Koto times back-up blades spread from '''Yoroi-Doshi''' (armor

"between the Obi". So Wakizashi in ancient times referred to any sword that

was secondary to the Tachi and worn inserted in the Obi with no reference  

to its lenght. In Koto times back-up blades spread from '''Yoroi-Doshi''' (armor

piercing daggers), '''Chiisagatana''' (shorther then Katana) and '''Koshigatana''', all

piercing daggers), '''Chiisagatana''' (shorther then Katana) and '''Koshigatana''', all

always worn inserted in the Obi but the Koshigatana, that a few times was  

always worn inserted in the Obi but the Koshigatana, that a few times was  

worn hanging from Obi. The length, in these times, wasn't an issue to qualify

worn hanging from Obi. The length, in these times, wasn't an issue to qualify

a blade as "Wakizashi" and the term "Daisho" in the meaning of "Daito and Shoto"

a blade as "Wakizashi" and the term "Daisho" in the meaning of "Daito and Shoto" (pair of long and short swords) wasn't in use yet.

(pair of long and short swords) wasn't in use yet.

There is a document quoting that '''Oda Nobunaga''' wore (with the kanji used for the meaning "inserted between obi") a set of DaiSho. So is safe to say that was between Tenbun and Eiroku (1532 - 1569) that this fashion

There is a document quoting that '''Oda Nobunaga''' wore (with the kanji used for  

the meaning "inserted between obi") a set of DaiSho. So is safe to say that

was between Tenbun and Eiroku (1532 - 1569) that this fashion

was adopted by Samurai, most likely having already been adopted by lower  

was adopted by Samurai, most likely having already been adopted by lower  

ranks troops sometime earlier. During the '''Momoyama''' were fixed the first  

ranks troops sometime earlier. During the '''Momoyama''' were fixed the first  

*Katana - to be 2 shaku (=60.6cm) and longer.

*Katana - to be 2 shaku (=60.6cm) and longer.

Blade lenghts are always measured streight between the Hamachi and the Kissaki.

Blade lengths are always measured in a straight line between the Munemachi and the Kissaki.

Since the official adoption of the metric system in 1891, the traditional  

Since the official adoption of the metric system in 1891, the traditional  

*Katana (and Tachi) - to be 60cm or longer

*Katana (and Tachi) - to be 60cm or longer

This legal classification sometimes doesn't matches with the academical one

This legal classification sometimes doesn't match with the academic one

that is more complex, impling the way in which the blade was originally  

that is more complex, implying the way in which the blade was originally  

intended to be worn (Tachi or Katana) and its purpose.  

intended to be worn (Tachi or Katana) and its purpose.  

An academically called '''Sunnobi-Tanto''', because it is always a little longer  

Academically speaking a '''Sunnobi-Tanto''', is so-called because it is always a little longer  

then one Shaku (30.3 cm) is legally speaking a Wakizashi.   

then one Shaku (30.3 cm) and is these days legally speaking a Wakizashi.   

(Takeuchi, Alexander)

(Takeuchi, Alexander)

* '''Edo''' Era

===Edo Era===

Here starts the '''Shinto''' time. Shinto means "new swords" and entered

Here starts the '''Shinto''' time. Shinto means "new swords" and entered

Shinto time became to be Sugu-ha thought Hamon on the blade was Midare-ba.

Shinto time became to be Sugu-ha thought Hamon on the blade was Midare-ba.

Edo period is divided in five sword periods, the last two being the ShinShinto

Edo period is divided in five sword periods, the last two being the '''ShinShinto'''

period.

period.

* Keigen-Shinto period (1596 - 1623)

====Keigen-Shinto period (1596 - 1623)====

Keigen is a name of an era in Shinto time made by mixing

Keigen is a name of an era in Shinto time made by mixing

brigter then the japanese one and soon the fashion went out.   

brigter then the japanese one and soon the fashion went out.   

   

   

* Kanbun-Shinto period (1658 -1683)   

====Kanbun-Shinto period (1658 -1683)====    

In this period the center of swordmaking were Edo and Osaka, and new style  

In this period the center of swordmaking were Edo and Osaka, and new style  

'''Sai Jo O Wazamono''', the top of the top in cutting ability. Tests were made to fix such a classification, but this tests weren’t performed with Koto blades, considered too valuable to risk them in '''Tameshigiri''', so this classification must be taken with a grain of salt. Most swords in this period shows '''Yakidashi''' and from now on the hamon type called '''Toran-Ha''' becomes in fashion.     

'''Sai Jo O Wazamono''', the top of the top in cutting ability. Tests were made to fix such a classification, but this tests weren’t performed with Koto blades, considered too valuable to risk them in '''Tameshigiri''', so this classification must be taken with a grain of salt. Most swords in this period shows '''Yakidashi''' and from now on the hamon type called '''Toran-Ha''' becomes in fashion.     

* Genroku-Shinto period (1684 -1763)

====Genroku-Shinto period (1684 -1763)====

Genroku is belived to be a golden period for art and manufacturing.  

Genroku is belived to be a golden period for art and manufacturing.  

ones.     

ones.     

From here starts Shinshinto period. Although there is various opinions

From 1764 starts '''Shinshinto''' period. it's divided in two sub-periods.

about from when Shinshinto time start, generally we call Shinshinto which  

 

were made after 1764.

The characteristic of Shinshinto is it's wave of Hamon started from Machi

straight from Machi and then waved ). Boshi also waved if Hamon on the blade

 

 

====First Half of Shinshinto (1764 - 1829)====

 

Shinto time and swordsmith could get good quality Tamahagane.

Therefore, it seems that most of them didn't make their own Oroshi-gane.

 

 

====Latter half of Shinshinto (1830 - 1868)====

 

Till to 1868 swords which more emphasized mighty shape were made in this

quality of swords were highly affected by them.

 

Nonetheless, Meiji Tenno can be considered a Nihonto lover and he took many steps to preserve the ancient traditions in this art. His actions were a mere necessity.  

*** works in progress.....

the renewal of Ise Shrine, a ceremonial that dated more then 1000 years.

ones.

art object, in a different and better way then made in the post-Meiji time.  

their spiritual and artistical meaning, being no more an effective weapon.

The following layout shows the main (NOT all) '''Sugata''' (shape) changes of the japanese sword with period and lenght (in shaku, 1 shaku = 30.3022 cm or 11.93 inches) from right to left, first line first. Obviously an infinite number of possible mix are found, but these are

The following layout shows the main (NOT all) '''Sugata''' (shape) changes of the japanese sword with period and lenght (in shaku, 1 shaku = 30.3022 cm or 11.93 inches) from right to left, first line first. Obviously an infinite number of possible mix are found, but these are

the most common ones.   

the most common ones.   

[[Image:Sugata history2.gif|600px|center]]

[[Image:Sugata history2.gif|600px|center]]

''((See also [[Japanese Sword Handle Visual Glossary]] and [[Japanese Sword Visual Glossary]]))''

*Fujishiro Matsuo, ''Nihon tôkô jiten'' vol. I and II

*Articles by Schiller, Guido and Takeuchi, Alexander S. (attribution given

 

==See Also==

*[[Japanese Sword Handle Visual Glossary]]

*[[Japanese Sword Visual Glossary]]

[[Category:Arms and Armor]]

[[Category:Arms and Armor]]

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