Fujiwara Kuniyoshi Katana
藤原国吉造 刀
Item TK023

  • Period: Shinshinto — Late Edo Period (End of Edo - Meiji Era)

  • Mei (Signature): Fujiwara Kuniyoshi Tsukuru (Musashi – Shinshintō period) 藤原国吉造（武蔵・新々刀）

  • Designation: Tokubetsu Hozon

  • Nakago - 21.3cm Ubu, 1 Mekugi-ana

  • Nagasa - 63.5cm

  • Sori: - 1.5cm

  • Motohaba - 2.9cm

  • Sakihaba - 2.09cm

  • Kissaki - 3.3cm

  • Motokasane - 0.72cm

Price: ¥ 650,000

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Katana in Shikomizue Koshirae (Concealed Cane Mounting)

There were several swordsmiths who had the name Kuniyoshi active during the Shinshinto Period. Judging from its relatively short length and the fact that the blade retains its ubu nakago (unaltered tang), it is highly probable that this piece was forged after the Meiji-era sword ban (Haitōrei, 1876). The proportions and form suggest that it was purposefully made to be housed in this Shikomizue koshirae — a mounting designed to disguise the sword as a walking stick. This type of Koshirae picked up in demand after the Haitōrei Ban on swords.

The blade quality is exceptional. The jigane is a finely forged, tightly knit ko-itame hada, with a clear grain pattern that stands out beautifully under light. The hamon is a suguha executed in nie-deki, and the nie particles are extremely fine and reflective, producing a bright, almost luminous activity along the edge. The workmanship throughout displays refined control and skill.

The Shikomizue koshirae is understated yet striking — finished in dark brown lacquer with a subtle textured surface and spiral wrapping pattern, giving it the quiet dignity of an object meant for concealment rather than display. The bottom of the saya has a iron plate to be used as a walking stick. This style of mounting evokes the image of Zatōichi, the legendary blind swordsman, whose iconic cane sword concealed a deadly blade within an unassuming exterior.

This is a fascinating and beautifully made sword that bridges the artistry of the Edo tradition with the adaptive ingenuity of the Meiji period — both functional and poetic, an elegant weapon hidden in plain sight.

Comes with Shirasaya, Tsunagi (To keep the Shikomizue Koshirae together when not housing the blade) and copper habaki. 
The finely crafted blade and its rare Shikomizue koshirae form a complete and highly appreciable package.