In Detail: A Handmade World War II Katana

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This WWII II Japanese Katana is a highlight of the Art & Design Auction, now open for bidding through May 27.

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There is perhaps no cultural artifact as readily associated with the rich history of Japan as the Katana. Its legacy dates back centuries, intertwining with the martial traditions and embodying the craftsmanship and spirit of the samurai. More than a mere weapon, the Katana became a cultural icon. 

Its outsize significance in the history and culture of Japan gave it an enduring appeal, even long after the dissolution of the samurai class. By World War II, the Katana returned to significance, though its role shifted in the modern era. During this period of fervent nationalism, military officers were equipped with Katanas, now proud symbols of Japanese heritage.  

Today, we invite you to take a closer look at one remarkable Katana from The Rulle Collection, currently open for bidding in Magnusson Art Group’s Art & Design Auction through May 27.

Shin Guntō

The Type 98 Katana, also known as the Shin Gunto, emerged as a standard-issue military sword during World War II for the Imperial Japanese Army. Designed with a blend of tradition and modernity, it served as a symbol of martial prowess and national pride for Japanese soldiers. Its streamlined design and mass production reflected the pragmatic needs of wartime, while still retaining elements of the revered Katana tradition.

Army Officer

The hanger of the Type 98 Katana served as both a functional and symbolic element. A single hanger attached to the scabbard indicated that the sword was intended for use by army officers, distinguishing it from naval swords, which typically had twin hangers. This feature not only facilitated carrying the sword but also conveyed the rank and status of the officer who wielded it.

The Kashira and Tsuka

Traditionally, the Tsuka (handle of the sword) is wrapped with a material such as silk or leather, a perfect example of the kind of marriage of function and aesthetics that characterizes Katana design. Beneath the wrap, traditional Katanas often featured ray or shark skin, an eminently available resource to an island nation. Here, the ornate Kashira demonstrates the superior craftsmanship of this Katana in particular.

A Master Swordsmith

The first side bears the signature "靖徳" (Yasutoku) in Japanese characters, indicating the sword's maker. The full inscription reads "梶山靖徳謹作" (Kajiyama Yasutoku kin saku), signifying that the sword was crafted by Kajiyama Yasutoku with reverence. On the other side, the date "昭和十一年四月十日" (April 10th, 1939) is inscribed, providing a glimpse into the sword's creation during the Showa era.

Kajiyama Tokutaro was born on 16th February 1881 in Fukuyama, Hiroshima Prefecture, into a family with a legacy in swordsmithing. Trained under Yokoyama Sukeyoshi, he honed his craft and was later appointed as one of the smiths at the Nihonto Tanrenkai within the Yasukuni Shrine by the War Ministry. Bestowed the tosho name Yasutoku by General Araki Sadao, his works often reflected the Bizen tradition, albeit with his personal touch. After retiring in 1941, he returned to his pre-war name of Ujimasa and continued his legacy until his passing in 1957.

Engineering

The Hamon, or temper line, is one of the defining features of a Katana's blade and is a result of the intricate engineering involved in its creation. Traditional Japanese swordsmiths carefully manipulate the carbon content of the steel during the forging process to achieve a balance between hardness and flexibility. This technique, known as differential hardening, creates a distinct transition between the harder edge of the blade and the softer spine, which contributes to the Katana's legendary sharpness and resilience.

Additionally, the Hamon serves as a visual representation of the blade's heat treatment, showcasing the skill and artistry of the swordsmith. The pattern and characteristics of the Hamon can vary widely depending on factors such as the composition of the steel, the forging method used, and the quenching process.

Beyond the Hamon, the engineering of a Katana encompasses various other elements, including the curvature of the blade, the geometry of the edge, and the balance of the sword as a whole. Each component is meticulously crafted to optimize cutting performance while maintaining the Katana's graceful form and legendary durability.

Mekugi and Tsuba

The Mekugi (shown foreground) plays a crucial role in the assembly of a Katana, allowing the sword to be disassembled for maintenance or repair. Located near the base of the handle, the Mekugi secures the Tsuka (handle) to the Nakago (tang) of the blade. By removing the Mekugi, the Tsuka can be slid off, revealing the full length of the Nakago. This feature not only facilitates maintenance of the sword but also enables customization of the handle to suit the preferences of the wielder.

Accompanying the Mekugi is the Tsuba, or handguard, which serves both functional and decorative purposes. Positioned between the Tsuka and the blade, the Tsuba acts as a barrier to protect the hand from sliding onto the sharp edge during combat. Traditionally crafted from metal or other durable materials, the Tsuba often features intricate designs or motifs reflecting the craftsmanship and aesthetics of the swordsmith.