A WAKIZASHI IN KOSHIRAE Japan, 17th-18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The blade: Shinogi-zukuri and iori mune, the hamon a wider suguha with waves in some areas and with choji as well as nioi, the hada is inconsistent with some itame. The nakago (tang) with three mekugi-ana, the yasurime is katte-sagari, the tip is a light kurijiri. The mounting: The slightly oval iron tsuba with both hitsu, decorated with blossoming plum branches inlaid in high relief with different metal alloys. The fuchi also shows plum blossoms as well as the straw roof of a fisherman's hut with a straw hat below, all with gilt. The kashira shows a rocky outcrop protruding into the water with a tree under the silver moon. The boldly gilt menuki each show a bird in gnarly branches, while the kozuka handle shows birds with some gold nunome. The saya with powerful raden, the mother-of-pearl in silver, green and violet, creating a beautiful effect reminiscent of a starry sky. The kurigata with a violet sageo. NAGASA 48.2 cm, blade LENGTH 62 cm, total LENGTH 67.7 cm Condition: The blade is in good condition with minor surface wear, the mounting is in very good condition with traces of wear, the kogatana (kozuka blade) is missing. Provenance: Hungarian private collection.