A fine Edo Jidai Katana Zutsu
Paulownia / Kiri Mon of the Toyotomi Clan
This is a rare katana zutsu from the early Edo period. This is a large zutsu. It measures over 44 inches in length. Katana zutsu are hard to find. On the occasion that one does encounter an example, it is usually wakizashi length and a more decorative example from the late Bakumatsu period. Zutsu became more common in the time of Sankin-kotai ("alternate attendance") during the Tokugawa reign. This example bears the paulownia kamon of Toyotomi Hideyoshi on both sides of the lid. This is would have been the property of a samurai of status in the Toyotomi clan. Overall, the condition of this katana zutsu is excellent for its age. The are are a few minor chips in the urushi as shown in the photos. A fantastic and very rare example.
nihontocraft@bellsouth.net
