Dragon Prince — Daimyō’s Katana - Edo period, 18th century

Status

available

Description

An Edo-period (18th c.) katana formerly owned by a prominent daimyō, curated for its museum-grade fittings and complete certification. The blade presents a refined hamon and a gold habaki with a textured “rainfall” surface for a snug saya fit. Its koshirae is the showstopper: oversized fuchi-kashira crisply engraved with airborne dragons amid clouds; black silk ito over beautifully patinated samegawa; and a major Namban sukashi tsuba—solid iron carved to openwork lattice with two gold-inlaid dragons. The tsuba pattern is documented in a leading swordguard reference (included with the sale). This is an exhibition-level statement that still feels balanced and alive in hand.

The Story

Introduced on Art of the Samurai as the “Dragon Prince,” this katana embodies the prestige of its former daimyō owner and the exuberance of Edo metalwork. Collectors will recognize the Namban school’s cross-cultural aesthetics in the latticework tsuba and the bold pair of gilded dragons. The piece carries full NBTHK certification, satisfying modern collecting standards while preserving the aura of an aristocratic sidearm. From the tactile grain of the samegawa to the rainfall-textured gold habaki, every detail rewards close study. It’s the sword you display first—and the story your guests remember.

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