Blade and Mounting for a Short Sword (Wakizashi) 1601 - 1900

This is a wakizashi, a shorter type of Japanese sword, crafted by Yasutsugu, a renowned swordsmith active in the 16th and 17th centuries. The blade, with its intricate details, exhibits the characteristic sharpness and curvature associated with Japanese swords, showcasing the artist’s skill in metallurgy and design. The wakizashi, often paired with a katana in a samurai’s arsenal, holds significant cultural and historical importance in Japanese culture. It served as a secondary weapon for close combat, symbolizing both honor and practicality in the samurai’s daily life. The inscription on the handle indicates the maker and further enhances the historical and artistic value of this piece.