Japanese Wakizashi Kunimatsu
Miyake Teruyoshi
NBTHK Hozon Tōken
Heisei 13 (February 2001) Tokyo
This refined wakizashi was forged by Kunimatsu (邦松), the swordsmith name of Miyake Teruyoshi, an exceptional figure within the contemporary Japanese sword world. Unlike many modern smiths who focus solely on forging, Miyake Teruyoshi has devoted his life to the Japanese sword in multiple disciplines. He is not only a licensed swordsmith but also an experienced polisher, appraiser and scholar, combining practical craftsmanship with deep academic knowledge of nihontō.
Miyake studied sword appraisal under Ikeda Suematsu-sensei, gaining insight into the historical and technical evaluation of Japanese swords. His training in swordsmithing was undertaken under Hiroki Hirokuni, from whom he inherited the classical forging techniques that define traditional Japanese blade production. Through this dual education—both analytical and practical—Kunimatsu developed an unusually comprehensive understanding of the sword as both weapon and cultural artifact.
Beyond his work as a swordsmith, Miyake Teruyoshi is widely respected within the Japanese sword community as a collector and researcher of historically important swords and fittings. He serves as a director of the Japanese Sword Accessories Museum, reflecting his long-standing commitment to the preservation and study of traditional Japanese arms and craftsmanship. This background gives his blades a distinctive character: they are forged by someone who not only makes swords but studies them with the eye of a connoisseur.
The wakizashi displays a calm and dignified sugata, reflecting the restrained elegance characteristic of high-level modern work executed fully within the classical tradition. The proportions are balanced and harmonious, avoiding exaggeration while maintaining a strong presence. The moderate sori of 0.4 cm creates a subtle and natural curvature that contributes to both visual refinement and practical handling.
The shinogi-ji is clean and evenly shaped, demonstrating careful control during both forging and finishing. The planes of the blade are well defined and precise, indicating confidence in shaping and polishing. The ji appears tight and refined, presenting a smooth and disciplined steel surface that reflects careful preparation of the material rather than reliance on decorative effects.
The kissaki is proportionate and elegant, neither extended nor shortened, and flows naturally from the body of the blade. The yokote is clearly defined and executed according to classical standards, demonstrating a deep understanding of traditional blade geometry.
The tang remains original and well finished. The signature 邦松 (Kunimatsu) is cut with clarity and confidence and is accompanied by the date Heisei 13 (2001). The yasurime are orderly and precise, showing the disciplined approach of a swordsmith who understands the importance of the nakago not only as a structural element but also as an object of study for future appraisal.
The character of this wakizashi reflects the philosophy associated with high-level modern swordsmiths, particularly those recognized within the Mukansa tradition. Rather than pursuing flamboyant visual effects, the blade expresses refinement through balance, correctness and disciplined craftsmanship. Such work demonstrates mastery not through excess but through control and consistency.
The sword is accompanied by NBTHK Hozon Tōken certification, confirming its authenticity and recognition as a genuine Japanese sword worthy of preservation. This certification reflects the blade’s quality and its place within the continuing tradition of Japanese swordmaking.
Type Wakizashi
Swordsmith Kunimatsu (Miyake Teruyoshi)
Period Heisei era, February 2001
Province Tokyo, Japan
Nagasa 32.6 cm (1 shaku 0 sun 7.5 bu)
Sori 0.4 cm
Motohaba 3.15 cm
Kasane 5.0 mm
Certification NBTHK Hozon Tōken
This wakizashi represents the continuation of Japanese sword culture into the modern era, forged by a craftsman whose knowledge extends beyond the forge to the scholarly study of the sword itself. Combining refined workmanship, historical awareness and academic understanding, the blade reflects the enduring vitality of the Japanese sword tradition.
Offered by BushidoShop.nl, long-established European specialists in authentic Japanese swords, fully compliant with EU ownership and international import and export regulations.
