Real Japanese Daishō Sword Set by Noshu Shōhei (Kamei Akihira) NBTHK Hozon Heisei-Era Masterwork (Onhold)

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Onhold…Japanese Daishō Sword Set by Noshu Shōhei (Kamei Akihira), 1989

NBTHK Hozon – Heisei-Era Masterwork

This refined Japanese daishō—comprising a katana and a wakizashi—was forged in 1989 by the renowned Gifu-based swordsmith Noshu Shōhei, formally known as Kamei Akihira of the Ozai family line. Completed in June (katana) and July (wakizashi) during auspicious days designated kitchōbi, the pair exemplifies the harmony and continuity of traditional samurai weaponry preserved into the modern era. Both blades are authenticated as NBTHK Hozon, affirming their cultural, historical, and artistic significance.

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Katana – Specifications

• Blade length: 71.6 cm (2 shaku 3 sun 6 bu)

• Curvature (sori): 1.8 cm

• Width at hamachi: 3.6 cm

• Kasane (thickness): 7.5 mm

• Width at kissaki: 2.65 cm

• Saki-kasane: 5.5 mm

• Mekugi-ana: 1

• Era: Heisei period (1989)

• Origin: Gifu Prefecture

The katana displays a powerful yet elegant profile with a wide motohaba and substantial kasane, characteristic of modern Mino-influenced workmanship. Its balanced curvature and extended kissaki reflect a style crafted for both functional resilience and aesthetic refinement.

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Wakizashi – Specifications

• Blade length: 54.4 cm (1 shaku 7 sun 9 bu)

• Curvature (sori): 1.2 cm

• Width at hamachi: 3.2 cm

• Kasane (thickness): 6.5 mm

• Width at kissaki: 2.5 cm

• Saki-kasane: 4.5 mm

• Mekugi-ana: 1

• Era: Heisei period (1989)

• Origin: Gifu Prefecture

The wakizashi pairs naturally with the katana, echoing its proportions and construction while maintaining the graceful compactness expected of a ko-wakizashi. Together, the blades form a true daishō intended as a complementary and unified set.

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Swordsmith Background – The Work of Kamei Akihira

Kamei Akihira (1927–), born in Tomikachō, Gifu Prefecture, is a highly respected smith of the late Shōwa and Heisei periods. He studied under Tamba Kanenobu, an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Gifu Prefecture and one of the most influential Mino-tradition swordsmiths of the 20th century. This training placed Akihira within a direct lineage of classical Mino workmanship, known for robust construction, clear jigane, and skillfully controlled hamon activity.

Throughout his career, Akihira maintained a dedication to traditional forging methods while producing blades admired for strength, beauty, and precise craftsmanship. His works—signed Kamei Shōhei (Akihira)—are sought after by collectors who value modern swords rooted in authentic historical schools.

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NBTHK Certification – Hozon

Both blades in this daishō set carry 1 NBTHK Hozon paper, confirming they are “worthy of preservation.” This designation verifies the authenticity, quality, and proper preservation of the swords, and underlines their status as culturally meaningful artifacts. Modern Heisei-era daishō sets with unified signatures, matching dates, and paired NBTHK certification are relatively uncommon and increasingly appreciated in the collector market.

This 1989 daishō by Noshu Shōhei represents the continuation of Japan’s ancient swordsmithing tradition into the modern age. With its strong Mino lineage, meticulous forging, and NBTHK authentication, the pair stands as an exceptional example of Heisei-period craftsmanship—combining artistic integrity, cultural heritage, and technical excellence into a unified and historically resonant set.