Signed Japanese Katana by Dōtanuki Kōzukenosuke
Item Details
A Japanese katana signed by Dōtanuki Kōzukenosuke, swordsmith and purported founder of the Dōtanuki school, founded in the mid-16th century in Higo Province in Kyūshū. Dōtanuki produced swords during the Keichō era (1596–1615), and this blade, slightly curved and extremely sharp, dates from this period. Beneath the tsuka (handle), the nakago is inscribed on both sides. The ura-mei is marked with the date ‘二月吉日’ (nigatsu kichijitsu), meaning a ‘lucky day in the second month.’ The omote-mei is inscribed with mark, ‘刀九州肥後国同田貫上野介’ (katana kyūshū higonokuni dōtanuki kōzukenosuke), indicating the blade was made in Higo province in Kyūshū by Dōtanuki Kōzukenosuke. The blade is housed in a dark brown leather saya (scabbard) and koshirae (sword fittings). The tsuka (handle) has same (ray skin), wrapped ito (braided cording), and menuki (ornament) in the shape of a samurai. The kashira (buttcap) features a rice stalk motif.
Condition
- blade shows surface scuffs, small pits, or corrosion on blade.
- the ito (braid wrapping) has come partially unlaced.
- the kojiri (scabbard tip) is missing.
- the mekugi (handle peg) is missing.
Dimensions
- measured in the scabbard.
Item #
16DEN057-457
