Ref: 987 - WW2 High Quality Civilian Mounted Gendai-To by 'Kanesada' in Outstanding Condition

A superb quality example of a civilian mounted mill steel Gendai-To in wonderful condition.

Nagasa: To follow...

The blade is in wonderful condition and exhibits a wonderful Yakiba with lots of activity within it (war-time polish). The fittings are of the highest quality and really make this sword unique and very attractive. The civilian Fuchi/ Kashira exhibits clouds and dragons, whilst the Tsuba is deeply carved with flowers. The Menuki follow this theme and are lovely antique examples featuring flowers. The scabbard is in super condition and is untouched with its original pig skin combat cover. The sword is dated 1941 and signed by 'Kanesda' (a highly rated Tosho (smith) of WW2). Kanesada worked from the first month of Meiji 36 (1903) for the newly founded Army Artillery Weapons Factory (Rikugun-hôhei-kôshô, 陸軍砲兵工廠) in Tôkyô as they was a forge erected there. It was in general a time of military build-up and thus a lot of guntô, also traditionally forged ones were needed. Many high-ranking persons and members of the new aristocracy visited this forge but Kanesada was not able to show his full skill as he died suddenly on the 28^th day of the third month of the very same year (1903) at the age of 67. It is said that he was working on swords for the prime minister and a British ambassador at that time which he was unable to finish. He must had enjoyed a certain fame as several newspapers in Tôkyô mentioned his passing in detail.

The picture is of Kanesada aged around 50. 

 This is a rare example and these rarely appear on the market in this condition.