UNSIGNED, LATE HEIAN - EARLY KAMAKURA PERIOD (12TH - 13TH CENTURY)

This is a fine ubu tachi of typical late Heian - early Kamakura Period shape. Although the lower half of the tang has been re-shaped and beaten towards the direction of the cutting edge in order to accommodate a later style of mounting, it is still possible to recognise the original kijimomo shape and kurijiri. It has the flowing itame grain and a pale form of bo-utsuri found on Kyushu work of the time, although the hamon ressembles that of Ko-Bizen work. The sword was originally registered as being by the smith Shinsoku, of Kyushu. The blade shape and dimensions, and the blade characteristics, are similar to those of a signed blade by Shinsoku which is said to have been passed down by the Aizu Matsudaira clan, and illustrated in Kanto Hibi Myo.
The boshi appears to have been enhanced by skilful polishing, so it is not clear to what extent the hard area remains. This is apparent with many swords which are registered as Juyo Token, and it is an acceptable defect in blades of such age and importance.