Shadow Dancer Nova Silver Woman Warrior Kanmuriotoshi-Zukuri Katana Sword

Perfect for enthusiasts drawn to both traditional and fantasy-inspired designs, this katana from Shadow Dancer’s Nova series is a functional masterpiece that doubles as a visually striking and memorable display. 

Forged from 1095 carbon steel, the kanmuriotoshi zukuri (translating to “crown drop-off,” referring to the distinctive tapering from the blade’s back toward the tip) blade is exceptionally sharp, swift, and precise. Differentially heat treated, clay tempered, and mirror polished, the resulting blade has a stunning sanbonsugi (reminiscent of three cedar trees) hamon to maximize its visual appeal. Meanwhile, the addition of a bohi (fuller) decreases the katana’s overall weight, improves its point of balance, and heightens the clarity of its tachikaze. 

Blackened brass fittings with gold highlights include a maru gata (round) sukashi (openwork) tsuba, fuchi, kashira, and menuki with plum blossom motifs. Prized for their fragrance and appearance, plum blossoms are the first flowers to bloom in late winter, even with snow covering the branches, serving as a reminder of perseverance, elegance, and resilience. Other fittings are gold-tone seppa and habaki, which lend contrast and refinement, adding to the katana’s elegance.

A single mekugi secures the full tang blade to the wooden core Haichi-style katana covered in white genuine samegawa tightly wrapped in place using black synthetic leather ito in the katatemaki style. Completing the design is a gray oil lacquered saya adorned with two female warriors: one wielding a sword, the other holding a demon’s severed head, paired with alloy shitodome and thickened sageo.