Z-SEY Nagamaki-Zukuri Katana

Emerging during the  Nanbokuchō period (1336 - 1392 CE), the nagamaki was a weapon that evolved from nodachi (field swords) that were modified for better control and leverage. As battlefield tactics changed, nagamaki blades were shortened and remounted into katana, giving rise to nagamaki naoshi blade profiles. 

As it grew in popularity, new katanas were also forged in this style, as seen in this Shadow Dancer katana with a nagamaki zukuri (nagamaki style) blade. Forged from crucible steel, the blade also has a bohi that decreases the overall weight of the sword without compromising its structural integrity while improving its point of balance. The differential heat treatment and clay tempering process yields a gunome (waves) hamon. Traditional sashikomi A+ polishing by hand further clarifies the jihada and temper line. 

A blackened cupronickel kiku gata (chrysanthemum shape) sukashi (openwork) tsuba with fine radial spokes signals high status and refinement, longevity, endurance, and vitality. With petals that extend like sun rays, the chrysanthemum is the official emblem of the Japanese Imperial Family. Cupronickel fuchi and menuki feature bamboo motifs, reminding warriors of the importance of resilience and upright virtues. The matching cupronickel kashira has an interlocking basketweave texture, evoking woven bamboo. Other fittings are silver-toned brass seppa and a two-piece habaki. 

One mekugi secures the nakago to the wooden handmade Haichi style tsuka. White samegawa with large nodes cover the handle, providing friction for the tightly wrapped tsukamaki using Japanese silk ito. 

Completing this beautiful piece is a black saya with horn fittings, cupronickel shitodome, and a thickened sageo.