This is a Japanese Samurai Wakizashi, or "sword short" from the WWII era. A Wakizashi worn together with a Katana was the official sign that the wearer was a samuria of fuedal Japan. When the two were worn together the pair of swords was called a daisho. These short swords have been in use as far back as the 1400's. The Wakizashi was used as a backup for the Katana, close quarters fighting, beheading defeated opponents and to commit seppuko, a ritual suicide. Samurai carried the Wakizashi at all times, even when the katana was left at the front door when visiting castles or palaces. The blade length was between 12 and 24 inches. The blade on this wakizashi measures 15 1/2", with an overall length of 21 1/2". There is no visible temper line (hamon) on the blade. There are age spots and oxidation along the entire length of the blade. The hilt is wrapped in black marine skin and wrapped in black lacings (ito). The marine skin is missing in a couple of small areas, and the ito show some pretty heavy use. The top mount (kabuto gane) is missing from the hilt. The brass ferrule at the base of the hilt is ornately engraved with a floral pattern. The iron tsuba is plain, with no engravings that I can make out. The wooden scabbard has a black laquered finish that shows plenty of wear from use. It is cracked on the top and bottom near the opening. The black lacquer is missing from various areas all over the scabbard. It has copper wire wrapped around it in three different locations. The scabbard has been provisioned to sheath a small knife (kozuka), but it is missing. There is a place in the scabbard where a small decoration was fitted, but it is also missing. This Japanese Wakizashi shows plenty of wear and tear from actual carrying and use, but still has some cool display power. Included with the sword is a very attractive brocade bag that it arrived in. It will go well with your WWII Japanese collection.

Item # AA2820

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