Shadow Dancer Kikusui-Sukashi San-mai Katana

Elegant and graceful, this Shadow Dancer katana has a shinogi zukuri (ridge line runs along the blade’s length on both sides) blade forged from folded steel with sanmai (three layers) construction. The differential heat treatment process to create a sharp edge while keeping the spine more flexible also yields a beautiful o-gunome (large rounded waves). Traditional sashikomi polishing accentuates the visibility of both the blade’s jihada and temper line, adding to its overall aesthetic appeal. 

True to its name, this katana comes equipped with premium fittings—including an iron maru gata (round) sukashi (openwork) tsuba, along with brass fuchi and kashira with an antique finish—with kikusui (菊水) motifs (chrysanthemum and water). Historically associated with Kusonoki Masashige (1294 - 1336) who aided Emperor Go-Daigo in overthrowing the Kamakura shogunate, it is seen as a symbol of virtue and loyalty. Later, it was used as a family crest, the Japanese navy, and also various religious and patriotic societies signifying loyalty to the emperor. Copper seppa and habaki add warmth and contrast to the sword’s overall design. 

A single mekugi secures the full tang blade to the wooden Haichi style tsuka covered in white samegawa wrapped tightly using Japanese-imported black kapok (silk-cotton) ito for a durable and comfortable grip. 

Completing this piece is a mesmerizing glossy scabbard with horn fittings, brass shitodome, and Japanese-imported synthetic silk sageo.