Shadow Dancer Nova Red Fantasy Katana 1095 Clay Tempered with Gunome Hamon

Regal and imposing, this katana from Shadow Dancer’s Nova Series blends fantasy inspired designs with craftsmanship of the highest standard.

Forged from 1095 carbon steel, the hira zukuri (flat and ridgeless) blade has a sleek cutting profile. The differential heat treatment the blade undergoes not only produces a hard and sharp edge with a more flexible spine, but also yields a stunning sanbonsugi (reminiscent of three cedar trees) hamon that accentuates the katana’s overall appearance. The blade is then mirror polished for a flawless and reflective finish.

This katana comes equipped with blackened fittings, such as the iron maru gata (round) sukashi tsuba with kikusui (chrysanthemum on water), a culturally and historically profound theme. During the Kamakura period (1185 - 1333 CE), Kusunoki Masashige (1294 - 1336 CE), a military strategist, fought fiercely for Emperor Go-Daigo. As legend has it, Masashige was awarded the right to use the Imperial Chrysanthemum crest, and feeling presumptuous to use the same crest as his ruler, Masashige placed a river beneath the flower, creating the kikusui mon, symbolizing longevity, loyalty, and nobility. 

Meanwhile, the blackened alloy fuchi and kashira feature hana karakusa (floral vines) motifs, representing prosperity and longevity. The blackened alloy menuki shows yaezakura (multi-layered cherry blossoms), a reminder of dignity, grace, and resilience. Other complementary fittings include gold-toned brass seppa and habaki.

A single mekugi secures the blade’s full tang to the wooden core Haichi style tsuka covered in black genuine samegawa with tightly wrapped tsukamaki using synthetic silk ito.

Completing this beautiful masterpiece is an oil lacquered scabbard with alloy shitodome and a thickened sageo.