Izumi no Daijō Fujiwara Kuniteru (3rd Generation) Katana
和泉大掾藤原国輝作 刀
Item TK018

  • Period: Shinto Period - Early Edo

  • Mei (Signature): 和泉大掾藤原国輝作

  • Designation: Tokubetsu Hozon & Hozon Tsuba

  • Nakago - Ubu - 2 Mekugi-Ana

  • Nagasa - 70.2cm

  • Sori: - 2.0cm

  • Motohaba - 3.45cm

  • Sakihaba - 2.3cm

  • Kissaki - 4.8cm

  • Motokasane - 0.7cm

  • Nakago - 21.4cm

SOLD

Katana by Izumi Daijō Fujiwara Kuniteru (3rd Generation) — Tokubetsu Hozon Token

The Kuniteru name traces back to the early Edo period, with the first generation known to have trained under Miyoshi Nagakuni and later earning the title Izumi Daijō in 1668. The Kuniteru lineage became closely associated with swordsmithing in Iyo province (present-day Ehime), and the name was passed down to successive generations of smiths who carried on its tradition of excellence.  This particular smith was active in the mid-Edo period, continuing the legacy of the Kuniteru line known for its robust craftsmanship and refined aesthetics.

This powerful katana by the 3rd generation Izumi no Daijō Fujiwara Kuniteru is a commanding example of Edo period craftsmanship, boasting heroic proportions and a remarkably bold presence. Forged in the classic shinogi-zukuri style with an iori-mune, the blade retains its original robust shape, with an impressively wide mihaba—a striking 3.45 cm—exceptionally rare for a sword of the Shintō period.

Its deep curvature flows gracefully into an extended chū-kissaki, whose form is equally imposing. The jihada is a beautifully forged itame-hada, dark in tone, with a hiraji surface that gleams with a dusting of fine ji-nie. These specks of crystallized martensite form delicate, dark-hued nie lines, adding texture and visual depth across the blade.

The hamon is a bold and expressive gunome-midare, wide and thick, with vibrant tobiyaki scattered throughout—creating a lively, dynamic visual rhythm along the ha.

The nakago is in original ubu condition, featuring two mekugi-ana and classic kattesagari yasurime (slanted file marks). A blade of outstanding presence and power, this Kuniteru katana exemplifies both strength and refinement in form and function.

Koshirae