Ryūmon Katana Late Kamakura Period (c. 1300–1330) NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon

Ryūmon Katana Late Kamakura Period (c. 1300–1330)

Yamato Tradition
NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon (Blade) & Hozon (Menuki)

This authentic Japanese katana is attributed to the Ryūmon school (龍門), a branch of the renowned Yamato tradition dating to the late Kamakura period, approximately 700 years ago. The Ryūmon smiths developed as an offshoot of the Senjuin school, which was closely associated with the great Tōdaiji temple complex in Nara. During this era swords were carried not only by samurai, but also by warrior monks who protected temple lands during times of political instability.

Within the Yamato tradition collectively known as the Yamato Goha (Senjuin, Shikkake, Taima, Hōshō and Tegai) strength, reliability and structural clarity were prioritized over flamboyant decoration. These schools produced practical fighting swords with restrained elegance. The Ryūmon lineage inherited this disciplined forging philosophy.

The blade is mumei (unsigned), which is very common for Kamakura period Yamato works due to shortening over centuries or historical convention. The attribution to Ryūmon is based on its characteristic construction, steel structure and hamon, and is confirmed by the NBTHK with Tokubetsu Hozon certification an important designation verifying authenticity, correct period attribution and artistic quality.

The blade shows a tight forged jigane and a calm suguha hamon typical of Yamato workmanship: strong, clear and functional rather than decorative. Its slender and balanced shape reflects practical battlefield use rather than ceremonial presence exactly what is expected from a true Kamakura period fighting sword.

The katana is mounted in an elegant koshirae with quality antique fittings. The menuki are individually papered with NBTHK Hozon, confirming genuine Edo period Kyoto kinkō craftsmanship. Papered fittings significantly enhance collector value and authenticity of the mounting.

Measurements

• Nagasa: 66.4 cm

• Sori: 1.2 cm

• Motohaba: 2.5 cm

• Sakihaba: 1.4 cm

• Kissaki: 2.3 cm

• Motokasane: 0.63 cm

• Nakago: 17 cm

• Mekugi-ana: 2

This katana embodies the classical Yamato ideal: not excessive decoration, but purity of function and form a weapon from an era when steel was made for survival. A rare historical piece that captures the early warrior culture of Japan.