DAIDO (Katana) – Authentic Japanese Sword
Overview
This is a katana from the end of the Muromachi Era. Daido was a swordsmith from Mino in present-day Gifu Prefecture.
The original sword is thought to have been an extremely long katana, measuring 3 shaku (=90 cm).
Sword measurements from the end of the Muromachi tended to be much longer than those of the mid-Muromachi Era, and sword widths also grew more robust. Upon entering the Edo Era, swords were shortened, using a process called suriage, to meet the measurements set by the Edo Shogunate: 2 shaku, 3 sun and 5 bu (= approx. 71.6 cm).
There is no major damage or warping on the surface. Even after 500 years this sword remains in pristine condition.
The koshirae (mounting) is a gold pear skin finish uchigatana (mid-length sword) koshirae. Gold pear skin finish is a lacquering process in which lacquer is mixed with gold leaf. It is worth noting that the uchigatana koshirae is a standard design for sword mountings.
The handle is bound in leather rather than with yarn and the tsuba (sword guard) is decorated with a dragonfly motif. The dragonfly, called kachimushi (“victory bugs”), was revered by the Japanese warrior since it always flies forward and never retreats.
This long katana with its gold pear skin finish uchigatana koshirae makes a powerful statement and is an exquisite piece.
Swordsmith: Mikawa no kami Fujiwara DAIDO Nobunao
Mikawa no kami: This is a zuryo-mei, or honorary title bestowed by the imperial court.
Fujiwara = Derived from one of the major traditional Japanese surnames, Fujiwara was a name taken by several swordsmiths. Also known as the Mononobe, a clan responsible for administering weapons.
Daido = Swordsmith’s signature. The correct reading for this name is Omichi, but the name is read Daido by convention.
Nobunao = Given name
Era: Late Muromachi Era (late 16th century)
Length: 73.7cm
Curve: 2cm
Mekugi hole: 4
Accessory: Kin-nashiji-saya uchigatana koshirae
Certification: Hozon Token (a certification of rank issued by the Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords)
A Samurai Sword to Call Your Own
There are few things in this world that are as inspirational as an antique Japanese sword. With over a thousand years of history, the tradition of swordmaking in Japan is one of the most highly regarded metal crafts in the world. While many aspire to own a genuine Japanese katana, many perceived misconceptions and the difficulty in communicating in English on such an important decision, have made the acquisition process basically out of reach.
Unique Japan is changing all of that. Through our trusted partners in Japan, we are able to source a range of authentic top quality Japanese swords, such as the Daido katana featured on this page, for much less than what you’d expect to pay at most retail sword shops, given our lower overheads. And we’ve made the process of registration and certification seamless and straightforward. Rest assured, a Japanese sword purchased from Unique Japan is a genuine investment for you, and generations after you, to enjoy.
Save 3.5% by Direct Money Transfer
Settlement of payment can be also be done by direct wire transfer to our bank account in Japan. This process saves us money in transaction fees, so we’ll take off 3.5% of the purchase price of the sword if you settle this way. Note that all overseas bank transfer fees must be paid by the sender.
Questions?
We know this is a big decision, so please feel free to contact us with any questions that you may have. If you are a member of the US Military, and would like to visit one of our special sword shows on a US Military Base in Japan, please refer to our events page for the latest information.