Shadow Dancer Nova Anime Style Blue Leaf Motif Battle Ready Katana Sword

This Blue Leaf Katana from Shadow Dancer’s Nova Series is a culmination of the brand’s impeccable traditional craftsmanship and innovative modern designs. 

Its shinogi zukuri (ridge line runs along the blade’s length on both sides) blade forged from 9260 steel results in highly sought after attributes such as superior shock resistance, resilience, and flexibility. Heat treated and oil quenched, the stunning blade is mirror polished for a smooth and reflective finish. 

Despite its modern design, the koshirae for this katana is deeply rooted in Japanese history. Its iron maru gata (round) tsuba as well as its alloy fuchi and kashira feature geometric shapes that resemble the Tokugawa Shogunate’s family crest, the ruling clan of Japan during the peaceful Edo period (1603 - 1868 CE). During their reign, the use of the mitsuba aoi (三つ葉葵) crest was reserved only for the main family and close relatives. 

A gold-toned alloy menuki features a biwa, a traditional Japanese pear-shaped lute often used in formal court orchestras and by Buddhist priests for storytelling (especially the Heike Monogatari) in Japan. Also the primary symbol of Benzaiten, the Buddhist goddess of good fortune, music, poetry, and eloquence, the biwa serves as a talisman for prosperity, refinement, and divine protection. Other fittings in this katana include brass seppa and habaki. 

Staying true to traditional design, the full tang blade is secured between the two halves of the wooden Haichi style tsuka using a mekugi. The handle is then covered in blue genuine samegawa and tightly bound using synthetic silk ito for a durable and comfortable grip. 

Lastly, this unique piece is completed by a light blue oil lacquered scabbard with fine, abstract web lines in gold, creating a dynamic pattern. The saya is fitted with an alloy shitodome and a matching thickened sageo.