Japanese Samurai Sword Katana Chikugo Sumi Suketoshi.

Katana Chikugo Sumi Suketoshi

Preserved Sword  NBTHK Hozon
Late Muromachi  Early Edo period (circa 1596), Chikugo Province

Curatorial Summary

This katana by Chikugo Sumi Suketoshi is a powerful example of late Muromachi–early Edo craftsmanship, characterized by robust functionality and restrained elegance. Forged at a time of transition from battlefield necessity to early Edo stability, the blade reflects the practical priorities of a professional warrior class while retaining strong aesthetic discipline. A sword intended for use, yet preserved today as a historical artifact of the Sengoku legacy.

Swordsmith & Historical Context

Chikugo Sumi Suketoshi was a swordsmith active in Chikugo Province and a disciple of Yokoyama Kagasuke Sukehisa, working in the service of the Kurume domain. The name Suketoshi is associated with blades produced during a period of continuous conflict, where reliability, cutting ability, and durability were paramount.

The era in which this sword was forged—around the end of the Muromachi period—was defined by near constant warfare. Swords from this time were not ceremonial objects but essential tools of survival, carried by samurai who expected their weapons to perform under extreme conditions.

Blade Description

The blade exhibits a strong and purposeful sugata, consistent with late Muromachi battlefield swords. The curvature is functional, optimized for cutting from horseback and close combat. The jihada is well forged and honest, reflecting practical steel selection rather than decorative intent.

The hamon is clear and resilient in character, emphasizing toughness and reliability. This is a blade forged for effectiveness, not display a defining trait of quality Sengoku period work.

Mountings (Koshirae)

The katana is presented in a striking koshirae featuring a black lacquered saya complemented by dragon-themed fittings, including tsuba and mountings. The dragon motif, long associated with strength, authority, and protection, reinforces the martial character of the blade.

These mountings enhance the sword’s presence while remaining appropriate to its historical and functional origins, creating a balanced dialogue between weapon and adornment.

Authentication & Papers

The sword is accompanied by NBTHK Hozon Token, confirming its authenticity and recognition as a genuine Japanese sword of historical importance. These papers validate both the attribution to Suketoshi and the blade’s preservation quality.

Measurements

• Nagasa: 62.8 cm
• Sori: 1.0 cm
• Motohaba: 3.2 cm
• Sakihaba: 2.25 cm
• Motokasane: 6.0 mm
• Sakikasane: 4.5 mm
• Mekugi-ana: 1

Collector & Historical Notes

Swords by Suketoshi are valued for their direct connection to the Sengoku period and the realities of samurai warfare. Unlike later Edo-period blades made in times of peace, these swords carry the unmistakable presence of functional arms produced under constant demand.

This katana is suitable for

• Collectors of Sengoku-period nihontō
• Historically focused private collections
• Study of late Muromachi martial swordmaking
  

  Provenance

  Offered by BushidoShop.nl  a long established European specialist in authentic Japanese swords. Fully compliant with EU ownership and Import/ export regulations.

  BushidoShop.nl  European specialists in high-grade Japanese swords.