A MINO SENJUIN KATANA
Overview
Mino Senjuin is one of the major schools of the Mino sword-making tradition. It can be traced back to the Yamato Senjuin School from the late Heian period (12th century).
Experts close to Unique Japan feel that the founder of the Mino Senjuin School itself, KUNINAGA, in the Jowa era (1345~1349) forged this blade. Conservatively speaking, we list the blade during the Oei Period (1394~1427).
The stately Edo-period koshirae (fittings) feature elements of highly skilled gold inlay and a modern hilt wrapped in a complex weave called Kumiage-maki. The tsuba (guard) has details of ivy, which is symbolic for immortality, friendship, faithfulness and eternal life.
Thin stripes of mother-of-pearl gracefully decorate the lacquered saya (scabbard) in a style called Raden Fuemaki. Raden means mother-of-pearl and Fuemaki Nuri is an urushi (lacquer) painting technique.
The background story as to why it is called fue is for its design looks similar to the knot of a bamboo flute or Takebue. Furyu translates to mean refined and elegant.
The sword has a prominent bo-hi (groove) running the length of the blade to lighten and strengthen the blade. It is a sword that exudes a calm magnificence. Such a clean surface and an absolute delight to hold and admire.
This sword was sold to a collector at the Okinawa Sword Show V.
Photos
*All photos taken professionally by Eric Bossick for Unique Japan
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