Muromachi Period WWII Japanese Air Force Officer Shobu-Zukuri Wakizashi
(Scroll down for more high-quality photos)
Type: Wakizashi, Mumei (Unsigned)
Item No.: ujgu003
Blade Shape: Shobu-zukuri
Period: Mid to Late Muromachi (~1450, 550 year-old blade)
Length: 57.5cm
Curvature: 0.4cm
Mekugi: 1
Mountings: Traditional WWII Army/Air Force Mountings
Included: Beautiful Japanese WWII mountings as shown, wood sword stand, vintage Japanese brocade bag, matching tsuba and accessories, sword maintenance kit, and all documentation to legally and safely export this sword from Japan.
Special Price (via credit card): ¥170,000 / $2,125
Special Price (in cash or direct bank transfer): ¥160,000 / $2,000
Optional Polish service: ¥60,000
Description:
If you are looking for a genuine WWII Gunto Sword that has many stories to tell, then this would be one to seriously consider.
The piece is quite a rare find. It’s a remarkably old blade from the Muromachi period, dating back about 500 to 550 years. Notice the shape of the blade and how to tapers gradually to the tip. This blade shape is called “Shobu-zukuri”. Shobu Zukuri means “Iris Leaf”, which refers to the shape of the beautifully curved kissaki (tip of ther sword).
This type of sword has an exceptional cutting blade, as first demonstrated against the Mongol invaders of 1274 and, especially in 1281. This style of sword proved incredibly effective against Mongol armor. Many of the sword battles took place directly on the Mogol ships on the shores of Hakata Bay (Kyushu area).
This is a sword that has been passed down from generation to generation, from Samurai to Samurai, from battle to battle. Given it’s longevity, the blade is could use a polish, but it’s not absolutely necessary. The new owner shall be the judge.
This sword’s last owner was likely carried by a pilot in the Japanese Air Force in WWII because it is shorter than a long gunto katana. The rationale is simple: smaller quarters in an airplane call for a shorter sword.
The accessories on the saya are wonderful and in fine condition. The clasps all fit smoothly and they match (notice the number 48 on the pieces). This is important when investing in a gunto piece.
The hilt’s silk is in wonderful condition, and there is a great feel and balance to the sword. Aluminum scabbards were introduced later in the war to replace the heavy steel scabbards as resources were depleting.
Notice the beautiful sakura petals on the scabbard – the national tree of Japan. Sakura is very symbolic and the emblem of Japan. The petals of a sakura represent Japanese warriors willing to fall and fight for their nation which is forever in bloom.
Cash or Direct Transfer Discount:
A 4% discount is offered for payments made directly to Unique Japan by direct bank transfer or in cash (dollars or yen). An attractive layaway plan is also available as listed below. Contact us to purchase this sword.
Convenient Layaway Plan:
Unique Japan is proud to offer a convenient layaway plan for our valued customers. If you are interested in purchasing this sword on layaway, simply contact us here for more information. The general terms of our layaway plan are outlined here.
If you are an American citizen living on Okinawa, we encourage layaway plans to use the services of G.I. Bill Pay, whom we have an account with. They can create a cost-effective payment plan that works best for you.
View this Sword in Person:
If you are interested in this sword and others from our collection, please contact us to book an appointment. Private meetings are generally arranged within the Tokyo area.
Exportation from Japan:
Unique Japan is able to ship swords from Japan to countries all over the world. All legal exportation paperwork is included with every purchase. Please allow about 4 weeks for us to process and ship an order from Japan. Dealers welcome.
CLICK ON ALL IMAGES for extreme closeups. Please be patient as the images load.
*All photos taken professionally by Jensen Walker