Japanese Hidden Sword in Walking Stick by Ryūsaishi Minamoto Masashige 1825 NBTHK Hozon (Sold)
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Hidden Sword in Walking Stick by Ryūsaishi Minamoto Masashige (1825) – NBTHK Hozon
This exceptional hidden sword, mounted in a walking stick and accompanied by a shirasaya (plain wooden storage scabbard), is the work of Ryūsaishi Minamoto Masashige, a distinguished swordsmith of the late Edo period.
The blade is certified by the NBTHK (The Society for the Preservation of Japanese Art Swords) as a Hozon Token (Preservation Sword), confirming its authenticity and historical importance.
The tang (nakago) bears a finely cut signature (mei):
流柔斎源正重作 (Ryūsaishi Minamoto Masashige saku) – “Made by Ryūsaishi Minamoto Masashige”
and a date inscription:
文政八年乙酉仲冬日 (Bunsei 8th year, mid-winter day) – corresponding to 1825 (Year of the Rooster).
Measuring 2 shaku 1 sun 7 bu (approx. 65.7 cm), this blade represents the elegant and functional style characteristic of the late Edo period.
Its discreet mounting within a walking stick would have served both as a concealed weapon and a refined symbol of status, blending practicality with artistry.
Ryūsaishi Minamoto Masashige was a talented swordsmith of the Choshu Clan, known for his skilled craftsmanship and connection to one of the most influential sword-making traditions of the time.
He studied under Suishinshi Masahide, the celebrated master swordsmith who spearheaded the Shinshintō (New Sword) movement.
Masashige inherited his teacher’s innovative spirit, combining classical techniques with refined aesthetics, resulting in blades admired for their balance, cutting ability, and elegant hamon (temper line).
The NBTHK Hozon certificate, issued on August 22, 2008 (Heisei 20), affirms the sword’s status as a genuine and well-preserved work of significant cultural value. Such certification is awarded only after rigorous examination by expert judges, underscoring both the blade’s authenticity and its historical importance within the tradition of Japanese sword-making.
This hidden sword is not only a fascinating piece of weaponry but also a rare artifact that embodies the artistry and heritage of the samurai era.
Its combination of concealed mounting, historical provenance, and NBTHK authentication makes it an exceptional example for collectors and enthusiasts of fine Japanese swords.
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