JAPANESE SWORDSMITHS
Commemorative Centenary Edition
W.Hawley
This is the latest revision of the indispensable English language reference on Japanese
swords. As the largest compilation of swordsmiths, each listing includes: where and when
each smith worked, how they signed, and the relative value of their swords. This Commemorative
Centenary Edition is completely re-photographed with historical material revamped for
easier reference of provinces, time periods, and terminology.
1,032 pages in 2 volumes, soft cover
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MASAMUNE TO SONO ICHIMON:
Masterworks of Japanese Swords by Masamune and his school
NBTHK (Homma, 1961)
Beginning with a twenty-seven page essay on the "Swordsmiths
of Sagami province with special reference to Masamune and
his school" in both English and Japanese, this important
text presents an assembly of Soshu school works
including many Juyo Bijutsuhin (Important Art Objects
protected from export) with large format oshigata in
multiple perspectives as shown at right. Bilingual -
Japanese and English - text throughout.
193 pages, 10¼ x 14½" hardcover
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NIHONTO JITEN
TOKUNO Kazuo (1973)
From the author of the well known
Toko Taikan
(1977), this book bares distinction as its
110 pages of oshigata of
important smiths of the Koto through Gendai periods has been made
accessible to English-language users through the
JSS/US' Index of Sword Literature - a testament of its
utility as a tool of study. Further, the oshigata here
are of higher quality than seen in the 1977 text because of its
larger size. Like the later work, this Japanese-language
reference includes biographical information for each listed smith,
and cites relative Yen values for comparison. Additionally,
included is a separate English-language listing of the oshigata
with index numbers to Hawley's Japanese Swordsmiths shown
above; this index allows the book to stand on its own.
263 pages, 7¼ x 10¼" hardcover |
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JAPANESE SWORDS & SWORD FITTINGS FROM THE COLLECTION OF WALTER A.
COMPTON, part I (31 Mar. 1992)
Christies catalog of the first Compton auction.
The quality of Compton's collection and Christie's photography and
documentation of it make this an important reference text. With realized
prices list included.
429 pages, 8¼ x 11¾" soft cover w/jacket
Interesting note - In this giant catalog and #2 all photos of the
fittings including iron works are shown in full color.
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Read a report on the first Compton auction:
"A Cutting-Edge Collection Earns $7.9 Million at New York Auction." |
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JAPANESE SWORDS & SWORD FITTINGS FROM THE
COLLECTION OF WALTER A. COMPTON, part II (22 Oct. 1992)
Christies catalog of the second Compton auction.
The quality of Compton's collection and Christie's photography and
documentation of it make this an important reference text. With realized
prices list included.
235 pages, 8¼ x 11¾" soft cover w/jacket
* The contents of all three Compton Auction catalogs are included in the
JSS/US's Index to Literature. |
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KANZAN SHINTO OSHIGATA DICTIONARY
With Romanization and English Forward
SATO Kanzan (2005)
Published in commemoration of the late Dr. Kanzan Sato, this important
shinto reference has been reprinted with its entire contents
indexed in English. Full romanization of inscriptions and
descriptive text are included, fulfilling the scholar's intention of "publish[ing]
a book on swords in English that would be easy for overseas sword lovers
to understand".
502 pages, 9 x 11½" soft cover |
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NIHONTO MEISAKU SHU
Shibata Mitsuo (1965)
This text presents a large collection of Japanese sword masterpieces,
with the an emphasis on Shinto and Shinshinto works.
Beautiful, traditional oshigata of the the highest quality. Multiple
perspectives, including nakago and monouchi, for each
blade are shown. Excellent study material. Commentary and index in
Japanese. A separate English-language index is also included.
124 pages, 7¼ x 10½" hardcover |
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THE SWORD AND SAME
H.L.Joly and HOGITARO Inada (r.1979)
This classic reference is a translation of many different early Japanese writings on the
sword. The primary work is a translation of
Arai Hakuseki's
Honcho Gunkiko - volume eight on swords; both the
author and this collection were highly regarded. Joly expands on this important
reference, adding additional articles and illustrations. Also included are
The
Book of Samé and substantial appendices covering a broad range of interesting topics
and information.
248 pages, 7 x 10" hard cover less dust jacket |
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TOKEN TOSOGU, TOKUGAWA
BIJUTSUKAN ZOHIN SHO 6 -
Swords and Accessories, Treasures from the Tokugawa Art Museum No. 6
Tokugawa Art Museum (1992)
A collection catalog. The 180 examples
presented include many important blades primarily of Juyo to
National Treasure status (89 pages of oshigata), sword
fittings and koshirae, and many daisho. High
quality photography throughout and printing on gloss stock -- all
exhibits are shown in color with the exception of the blades which
are shown in b&w as is traditional. The unprecedented collection of
highest quality works includes a complete, 10-page English-language
index of exhibits affording access to non-Japanese readers.
197 pages, 8½ x 10½" soft cover |
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OSAFUNE CHOSHI TOKEN HEN
Osafune Town-History Committee
(1988)
A detailed study of Bizen
Osafune smiths and blades. This
two-volume Japanese-language set presents historical materials on
the Osafune sword-making tradition in volume one, and a
second volume with photographs and traditional oshigata. An
outstanding value and essential tool for students of Osafune
blades.
728 pages in total, two 8½ x 12" hardcover with slipcase |
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AUSGEWÄHLTE JAPANISCHE
KUNSTSCHWERTER
AUS EUROPÄISCHEN SAMMLUNGEN DER NBTHK
SELECTED FINE JAPANESE SWORDS
FROM EUROPEAN N.B.T.H.K.
COLLECTIONS
Hagenbusch et al, NBTHK European Branch
(2002)
Cataloging a landmark exhibition of fine Japanese swords, this well
organized text delivers 120 pages of expertly documented swords, 15
pages of koshirae shown in color plates, and an extensive
glossary that will serve even the experienced student of Nihon-to.
Also included is an in-depth study of Yagu
tsuba, and three essays: "Meito
or What Makes a Masterpiece?" and "Technology, Beauty, and the Soul of
the Japanese Sword" by Nobuo Ogasawara, and "The Japanese Sword" by
Michael Hagenbusch. Compares favorably with such classics as the
Boston Museum (Ogawa, 1987) and Compton exhibition (Japan Society, 1976)
books. Full text in both English and German.
334 pages,
9¼ x 13¼"
hardcover |
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日本刀工辞典
NIHON TOKO JITEN
FUJISHIRO Matsuo (r.1964)
The classics Japanese-language sword
reference. This reference set includes detailed oshigata
and information of the most important smiths of the Koto and
Shinto periods. Long considered essential texts,
Fujishiro's rankings are a common reference of collectors and
scholars alike, and serves as one of the key texts cited in Hawley's
Japanese Swordsmiths. Included separately is an English-language index promoting
accessibility for non-Japanese readers. A two volume set: Koto and
Shinto.
Two 6¼ x 8¾" hardcover volumes |
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NIHON TOKO JITEN - English Translation
A full English translation of
Fujishiro's classic with additional supporting material. Here the English reader is
offered an opportunity for study as presented in no other text. Fujishiro's Nihon
Toko Jiten is made fully accesible when supplemented by this English translation; an
important tool for study and obvious value to serious collectors.
A two volume set: Koto and Shinto.
Two 8¼ x 11" hardcover volumes |
SHINTO SHU (Hamon To Meiji)
FUJISHIRO Yoshio (r.1955)
An important shinto reference accompanied by a separate
English translation and index. Oshigata and extensive
descriptions. The oshigata included are cross-referenced to
Shinto Taikan, Hawley, and Fujishiro's Nihon Toko Jiten
Shinto-hen.
223 pages, 7½ x 10½" hardcover / plus separate 68
page English translation, Cross-Reference and Index |
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昭和大名刀図譜
SHOWA DAI-MEITO ZUFU -
Great Masterpieces of Japanese Art Swords
(HOMMA
Junji,
1979/82)
The authoritative two-volume presentation of 313 meito - masterpieces
as could only be assembled in Japan. Included is the third volume, its
English translation which was printed in limited quantity.
780 total pages in three volumes, 10½
x 14½"
hardcover, with slip case(s) |
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THE
SCHOOL OF TADAYOSHI:
SAGA, HIZEN, JAPAN 1598 - 1871
R.J.Robertshaw (1999)
The definitive book on Tadayoshi school and Hizen-to. As the most prestigious school
of swordsmiths whose work spanned the shinto through shin-shinto periods, Robertshaw has
assembled a landmark work that is both concise while broad in scope. This ambitious
text delivers essential content which includes an in-depth history of the individual
smiths as well as exhaustive detail related to kantei. Oshigata of all
recognized Tadayoshi is included along with consideration of gimei - false/fake -examples.
Extensive illustrations: both line drawing, b&w, and color plates;
bibliography, and index.
214 pages, "Gold Edition" 8½ x 12" hardcover with slipcase, CD
included. A limited, private printing of 200 editions. |
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JAPANESE MASTER SWORDSMITHS:
THE GASSAN TRADITION
Morihiro OGAWA (1989)
The Gassan school, believed active since the Kamakura period
(1185-1333), continues to produce blades to this day. This important
English-language text presents a detailed account of Gassan Sadaichi's 1988 Boston blade
along with a thorough history of the Gassan-kaji - known for it's ayasugi
hada. Includes many photos and top-quality oshigata of both the Ningen
Kokuho (living national treasure['s]) masterworks and earlier blades by this
influential school.
85 pgs., 8¼ x 115/8" soft cover |
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SWORDS OF THE
SAMURAI
V. Harris, N. Ogasawara (1990)
Documents an important loan exhibition from Japan of Japanese swords to the British
Museum. In cooperation with the Asahi Shimbun presented are 142 exhibits
spanning the Kofun though Edo periods. Photographs of each exhibit
are accompanied by extensive documentation with each period also preceded by a scholarly
overview of historical and developmental changes resulting in the evolution of the sword
and its related arts. Includes an index of smiths and complete glossary of terms.
176 pages, 8½ x 11¼" soft cover |
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1979 BULLETIN:
The Annual Publication of the JSS/US
JSS/US, R.Hartman, Editor (1976)
Contains: Ko-tosho and Ko-katchuishi Tsuba, Japanese Matchlocks, Torigoye's Introduction
to Japanese Metalworks, Christie's Auction (6/79) report with 13 important oshigata, '79
Taikai Report, Explanation of Origami (certificates), and other articles.
80 pages, 8½
x10¾" soft cover |
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MEIBUTSU: Japanese Swords and Sword Fittings in American Collections
[Chicago] Token Taikai (1979); Rod McIlquham,
editor
Includes 87 sword masterworks and a presentation of the Chicago Museum's Gunsaulus
collection of sword fittings. Printed on high quality, gloss stock ensured that the
best image quality be realized throughout this important catalog. The swords,
borrowed from various private collections, span the Koto through Gendai periods; extensive
documentation for each blade, fine oshigata and large multi-page foldouts of four
of the swords lends to this catalog's distinctiveness. This catalog also presents
sixteen pages of plates showing 73 tsuba of the famed Gunsaulus collection - a welcomed
complement to the Chicago Museum's sought-after publications on this important collection.
68 pages, 8½ x 11" soft cover, and a separate 15 page
supplement |
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1980-1981 BULLETIN:
The Annual Publication of the JSS/US
JSS/US, R.Hartman, Editor (1982)
Contains: Ozawa Masatoshi - Master Swordsmith, A Brief History of Japanese Sword Fittings,
An Extremely Rare Blade by Shodai Izumi-no-Kami Rai Kinmichi, Modern Tsuba-Ko in America,
Characteristics of the Oei Bizen Sword, The Hidden Spirit of a Fine Koshirae, On the Study
of Japanese Swords (Footnotes).
69 pages, 8½
x10¾" soft cover |
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SPECIAL EXHIBITION: JAPANESE
ARMS & ARMOR
Tokyo National Museum (1976)
An exceptional exhibit catalog, nearly 600 pieces are included and span the range of
samurai arms & armor. The collection represents important, top level works as
could only be assembled in Japan. The entire collection is shown in 16 pages of
color plates, and 222 pages of b&w plates. It is perhaps one of the most
important collections ever assembled. The Japanese-language text is supplemented by
a full 33 page, detailed English index.
346 pages, 7 x 10" soft cover |
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PIERRES ET SABRES:
STONES AND SWORDS - The Restoration of Japanese Art Sword Blades
Laurent Milhau (1999)
With full text in both French and English, Milhau demonstrates the art and
complexity of sword polishing. For those fascinated by
The Crafts of the Japanese Sword, this text
furthers the examination of the togishi - sword polisher's - art. With
color photographs and detailed descriptions of each stage of the polishing process, this is
the only text of its kind for delivering an understanding of both the mechanics and theory
of art sword polishing.
96 pages, 8¾ x 11¼" hardcover |
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SAMURAI:
THE WARRIOR CLASS OF JAPAN
Barry Till (2003)
The history as told through arms, armor, prints and a host of other objects
celebrating the samurai. This extensive exhibit catalog present the subject
with a combination of color and b&w plates each well documented and supported by a
historical survey in both English and French. Includes glossary and
bibliography. Printed in limited edition of 2000 copies.
96 pages, 6 x 9" soft cover |
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JUKKEN: Nihon Koto Meisaku Shu
Shibata Mitsuo (1967)
This Japanese-language text presents a large collection of Koto period
masterpieces shown in 130 pages of beautiful, traditional oshigata of
the the highest quality. Multiple perspectives, including nakago and
monouchi, for each blade are shown. Excellent study material. Commentary
and index in Japanese. A separate English-language index is also
included.
136 pages, 7¼ x 10½" hardcover w/slipcase |
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KOTO SHINTO MEIHIN
SHU
NBTHK (1976)
"Koto and Shinto Masterpieces," Japanese-language text presenting
158 exceptional blades of the koto and shinto periods along with period koshirae(19)
and sword fittings(49).
187 pages, 8¾ x 12¼" hardcover with slipcase |
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MINO-TO: Swords
& Swordsmiths of Mino Province
M.E.Cox
The definitive English language reference on Mino swords; covers koto through
shinshinto
examples. When considered that of the Five Schools, the greatest number of swords
can be attributed to the Mino tradition - these are the swords that collectors are most
likely to encounter. Includes: historical material, construction, evolution, lists
of kaji, groups, & over 100 pages of oshigata. A separate 34 page supplement is also
included.
268 pages, 8 x 11½" soft cover |
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WAGA KYODO TO
IIDA Kazuo (1973)
A Japanese-language text with examples of swords produced throughout Japan demonstrating wakimono
- "country smith work" that does not conform neatly to the Gokaden, or
five classical traditions. Numerous oshigata throughout.
238 pages, 5¼ x 7½" hard cover
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IMPORTANT JAPANESE AND CHINESE ART FROM THE
COLLECTION OF THE MANNO ART MUSEUM
(21 June 2001, London)
Christie's auction, includes 36 lots of Japanese arms and armor
including 4 Juyo Bijutsuhin (Important Art Objects
protected from export) and several ju-to; each lot extensively
documented.
85 pages, 8¼ x 10½" soft cover |
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THE JAPANESE SWORD, The Soul of the
Samurai
Gregory Irvine
Drawing primarily from the collection of the Victoria
& Albert Museum (UK), this book presents an 'illustrated survey [that] examines the
development of the Japanese sword in a social and historical context'. The unique
perspective of the text is well supported by high quality photographs of swords,
mountings, and prints throughout. Photos are in color with the exception of sword
blades as is traditional. A beautiful work that belongs on the shelf of every
enthusiast.
128 pages, 8¾
x 10" hardcover |
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SHIN NIHONTO KANTEI NYUMON
YUICHI Hiro & KAZUO Iida
Offered together are New Introduction to the Kantei of Japanese Swords and its
English translation. This is truly a textbook on the process of kantei
nyusatsu and with the accompanying translation the English reader is offered an
opportunity for study as presented in no other text. Highlights of its contents
includes sections on reading signatures, distinguishing counterfeit signatures, and
finally 61 test examples on which to test your kantei skills complete with
explanations. Clearly an important tool of study, and with its separate English
translation an accessible tool of obvious value to serious collectors.
Two books: 387 pages, 5 x 7¼ soft cover Japanese
text, and 173 pages, 8½ x 11" hardcover English translation |
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SWORDS OF IMPERIAL JAPAN: 1868-1945
J.Dawson (1996)
The reference guide for the identification of Japanese Government, civilian, and foreign
service swords as well. This text utilized uniform regulations from the Japanese National
Archives for identifications, and includes detailed text, photographs, and charts.
158 pages, 8½ x 11" soft cover |
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SAMURAI:
THE WARRIOR CLASS OF JAPAN
Barry Till (2003)
The history as told through arms, armor, prints and a host of other objects
celebrating the samurai. This extensive exhibit catalog present the subject
with a combination of color and b&w plates each well documented and supported by a
historical survey in both English and French. Includes glossary and
bibliography. Printed in limited edition of 2000 copies.
96 pages, 6 x 9" soft cover |
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THE JAPANESE SWORD Q & A BOOK
W.Trevino (1978)
This limited-run printing offers a western collector's perspective on
the field of Japanese sword collecting. Alternatively titled,
"Some of the things you always wanted to know about Japanese swords but
didn't know who to ask," the book proceeds as a response to many
questions asked of the author by persons new to the field. Addressed
are questions on: cleaning, restoration, sword polishing, mountings, and
general guideline on buying & selling. English-language.
130 pages, 5½ x 8½" softcover |
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Nihon To
Koza
AFU: H.A.Watson, translator
The Nihon To Koza was first published in Japan in the mid-thirties as a series of 20 plus
volumes, then re-edited and re-issued in the late sixties in the form of a ten volume
hardbound set. This series has been translated to English and includes all of the pictures
and captions from the Japanese version. The translated volumes are 8½ x 11 inches,
hardbound, indexed, included a glossary, and run approximately 500 pages each. The current
translated set consists of 3 Koto volumes, a Shinto volume, a Shinshinto volume, and a
volume on kodogu. |
Pictured here, the complete translated set of the Nihon To
Koza. Detail and price for each volume is listed below.
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Nihon To
Koza Vol.IX: KOTO Part III
Covers the
koto smiths of Bizen, Chikuzen, Nagato, and the Nankaido, which is the four
kuni of Iyo, Sanuki, Tosa and Shikoku, and also includes Kii and Awaji. The majority of
this text is devoted to Bizen, the province from which it is said that approximately ¼ of
all existing koto blades originated.
510 pages, 8½ x 11" hardcover
Nihon To
Koza Vol.V: SHINSHINTO
Covers the period from 1772-1925; this information was not contained in the
original publication, as Shinshinto blades were generally not in high regard in Japan
during the 1930s. The major schools or groups of the period are discussed, as is the
influence of certain personages that emerged during that time. Connections between the
Gokaden and major shinshinto artists are considered. Gimei, or false signatures, are also
considered.
452 pgs., 8½ x 11" hardcover |
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TOKEN KANTEI DOKUHON and its
full ENGLISH TRANSLATION as published by the Token Society
of Great Britain
Nagayama Kokan(1979), Translated by Kenji Mishina
Following an in-depth consideration of the history of the sword in Japan, the five
traditions of workmanship and some outstanding Edo period examples, Nagayama's guide to
sword appreciation expands on criteria to judge sword quality, identify flaws, and
ultimately make a correct attribution. This ambitious guide includes an index and is
supported by numerous b&w illustrations throughout.
Japanese Text: 383 pages, 5¼x7¾" cloth cover with slipcase
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SHINTO TAIKAN
IIMURA Yoshifume (1976)
The authoritative standard on Shinto period swords.
Japanese-language text with outstanding, large format oshigata.
The oshigata are accessible to English-readers as Iimura's work has been
included in the JSS/US Index to Literature.
1,650 total pages, 8¾ x 11¾" two hardcover volumes, slipcased |
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JAPANESE SWORDS IN DUTCH COLLECTIONS
Han Bing Siong (2003)
A detailed study of 85 fine blades published in commemoration of the
Netherlands Token Society's (De Netherlandse Token Vereniging)
twenty-fifth anniversary. The selected blades were drawn from 500
examples catalogued by the Society. Extensive commentary drawing
on the author's life's study accompany each work. With traditional
oshigata of each sword plus 18 b&w, and 23 color plates.
224 pages, 8¼ x 11¾" hardcover
$125.00 |
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TOKO MINOMOTO KIYOMARO (1964)
A Japanese-language reference on shinshinto smith Minomoto (no) Kiyomaro. Includes
11 pages of oshigata and extensive text.
432 pages, 5¼ x 7½" hardcover |
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TOKEN TOSOGU:
Treasures from the Tokugawa Art Museum
Tokugawa Art Museum (1998, expanded/revised edition)
Catalog of the Tokugawa Art Museum collection. The 240
examples present important blades primarily of Juyo to National Treasure class status (88
pages of oshigata), sword fittings, and koshirae (full mounting) to include many daisho.
Spectacular photography thoughout and printing on gloss stock -- all exhibits are
shown in color with the exception of the blades which are shown in b&w as is
traditional. This unprecedented collection of highest quality works includes a complete
English-language index of exhibits along with descriptions making the content accessible
to non-Japanese readers.
267 pages, 8½ x 10½" hardcover |
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TOKO TAIKAN
TOKUNO Kazuo (1977)
Another classics Japanese-language sword
reference; this well know handbook is often seen at the side of many collectors on the
prowl. It includes biographical information of the most important smiths of the
Koto
through Gendai periods and cites Yen values for comparison. The key feature of this
text that sets it apart from other works is that it also includes
thousands of oshigata
for quick reference. This exact
edition was used for Hawley's
Japanese Swordsmiths
references to Tokuno's oshigata.
794 pages, 5¼
x 8½" hardcover |
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TOKO TAIKAN
TOKUNO Kazuo (r.2001)
Another classics
Japanese-language sword reference; this well know handbook is often
seen at the side of many collectors on the prowl. It includes
biographical information of the most important smiths of the Koto
through Gendai periods and cites Yen values for comparison.
The key feature of this text that sets it apart from other works is
that it also includes thousands of oshigata for quick
reference. Hawley's
Japanese Swordsmiths references to oshigata found here.
794 pages, 5¼
x 7½" hardcover
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NIHON KOZUKA
ZUKAN
SHIBATA Mitsuo (1969)
Japanese-language handbook on kozuka. This text is packed with oshigata; a
combination of photographs and traditional rubbings. Very dense format, with most
pages containing four or more examples. This is the definitive text on a seldom
covered subject. This is the complement to a series of works by Shibata on a range
of related topics. Indexed in Japanese.
174 pages, 4¼ x 7" hardcover |
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HYAKU NIN
HYAKU KEN
SHIBATA Mitsuo (1966)
"100 People 100 Swords"; This Japanese language text offers a broad range
collection of swords. Includes oshigata of 100 examples: nakago, full, and detail.
Of interest is the fact that included are swords of various rankings and not just
the high end examples out of reach to most collectors.
281 pages, 4¼ x 7" hardcover |
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TOKEN KAKAKU JITEN
Japanese-language handbook on swords and fittings.
Fittings are also addressed with detail photographs of
inscription. Content is divided to include 245 pages on
swords and 73 pages on fittings.
322 pages, 6 x 8½" hardcover |
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NIHONTO NYUMON
SHIBATA Mitsuo (1967)
Japanese-language handbook on swords. This text is packed with oshigata
(rubbings of sword tangs with signatures) and informative illustrations. Many
examples of signature details also included for comparison. This is the complement
to a series of works by Shibata on a range of related topics.
254 pages, 5¼ x 7½" hardcover w/dust jacket & plastic cover |
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NIHONTO NO KAIKATA
Japanese-language handbook on swords. This informative text was prepared as a
"buyer's guide" for Japanese swords. The first 65 pages illustrate an
array of exemplary swords in the fashion of Fujishiro's Nihon Toko Jiten, these
are presented on high quality gloss-stock. Many additional oshigata and
informative illustrations follow throughout the ballance of the text.
290 pages, 6 x 7½" hardcover w/dust jacket |
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SABRES DU JAPON
Robert Burawoy Gallery (1993)
A uniquely designed exhibition catalog of Japanese swords and koshirae
that makes use of its format to present stunning, large scale photography and oshigata
on pages that fold out to 13¾ x 19½ when opened. French-language; includes glossary and
bibliography of suggested reading. Limited edition of 600 copies.
26 pages, 4½ x 19½" softcover |
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JAPANESE MILITARY AND CIVIL SWORDS AND DIRKS
R.Fuller, R.Gregory (1996)
A history and comprehensive reference on Japanese edged weapons in military service.
Though not a collection of oshigata, it provides the most current information on swords of
the period including: a reappraisal of arsenal and retailer's stamps, and an expanded
classification of blade-making methods in order of merit.
288 pages, 7¾ x 10" hardcover |
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TOKEN YORAN
Iimura Yoshiaki
A Japanese language handbook that covers many aspects of swords, including
gendaito, and
kodogu. The AFU Quarterly (Fall #3) featured an extensive article with an index
to aid non-Japanese readers in using this text.
761 pgs, 4½ x 6" cloth soft cover |
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JAPANESE SWORDS
Nobuo Ogasawara (r.1970)
A little picture book on the Japanese sword. This broad survey includes swords and
fittings while also discussing the history of the art. Many important works are
shown. Numerous color and b&w photographs are detailed and a glossary follows.
128 pages, 4 x 5¾" soft cover |
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SWORDS & SWORD SMITHS OF BIZEN PROVINCE
Frederick Fimio (2001)
This book represents the only comprehensive work of its type in English - a source book on
Bizen swords produced during the Koto through Gendai periods that draws on many scholarly
references such as: Fujishiro's Nihon Toko Jiten, NBTHK journals, the Nihonto
Koza, Hawley's Japanese Swordsmiths, and many other well known
titles. Starting with an overview of the history and development of the swords produced in
the region, an extensive glossary, diagrams and twenty-three plates of oshigata, the
book's final synthesis is a 185-page annotated listing of Bizen smiths that references
back to the above, previously listed texts and others while also adding the author's
insight gained in 50-years collecting experience during which time Bizen
works had become the focus of his studies. A helpful work for all students of Bizen-to.
Limited
printing of only 200 copies.
271 pages, 8¼ x 10¾" soft cover |
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JAPANESE SWORDS &
FITTINGS IN THE WESTERN AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM
George Trotter (1989)
This text catalogs the museum's holdings with photographs and descriptions provided for
each piece. Swords are shown along with their koshirae. The contents
run a broad range from mass-produced Showa period items to also include many
earlier works. A historical overview, index of artists, and glossary are also
provided.
131 pages, 8¼ x 11½" soft cover |
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JAPANESE SWORDS & FITTINGS
IN THE WESTERN AUSTRALIAN MUSEUM
George Trotter (2002)
This text catalogs the museum's holdings with photographs and descriptions provided for
each piece. Swords are shown along with their koshirae. The contents
run a broad range from mass-produced Showa period items to also include many
earlier works. 18 Color plates followed by numerous b&w plates as shown here.
A historical overview, index of artists, table on Nengo dates, and
glossary are also provided.
131 pages, 8¼ x 11½" soft cover |
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JAPANESE MILITARY
SWORDS
R.Gregory (1971)
Predating joint efforts with Fuller, Gregory's monograph represents
one of the earliest western surveys on war period swords. This seminal work includes a
historical overview followed by a brief list of mon, 19 pages
of oshigata, line drawings and photographs of koshirae
and tassles and sundries. A numbered collector's book.
57 pages, 6 x 8½" soft cover |
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A GUIDE TO SHOWA SWORDSMITHS
R.Fuller, R.Gregory (1978)
This is the authors' first oshigata text and includes 106 war period examples.
Illustrations of actual smiths' signatures are indexed by their English spelling (romanji)
and includes notations regarding location, dates, and biographical notes or commentary on
smiths' work. Out-of-print and rare; few have survived the rigors of frequent
reference having lightweight pages and paper cover, normally well worn when found - though
this copy is in excellent condition both inside and out.
80 pages, 5¾ x 8¼" soft cover |
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SWORDSMITHS OF JAPAN: 1926-1945
R.Fuller, R.Gregory (1983)
One of very few oshigata references to consider blades produced during the Showa period.
The follow up to A Guide to Showa Swordsmiths (1978), this is the largest
of their three oshigata books. In addition to its 280 oshigata, this edition
includes complete indexes for both texts. All listings are in alphabetical order
based on English spellings with the addition of Japanese characters; this later feature
did not appear in the earlier work. The majority of listings also include notations
regarding location, dates, and biographical notes or commentary on smiths' work.
275 pages, 5¾ x 8¼" soft cover |
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THE OSHIGATA BOOK
R.Fuller, R.Gregory (1985)
Subtitled, 'unusual, rare, and interesting oshigata from Japanese sword blades of all
periods.' This reference text delivers an excellent collection of
oshigata
categorized into variations on the conventional practices of name, place, date.
Instead, here are examples of special order, presentation, and
tameshigiri
(cutting-test) inscriptions to name a few of the categories. Examples are shown with
full English and Japanese translations.
144 pages, 5¾ x 8¼" soft cover |
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MILITARY SWORDS OF JAPAN: 1868-1945
R.Fuller, R.Gregory (1986)
Following their initial monographs, this was
the first major English language text to address Showa period
swords and fittings.
127 pages, 7¼ x 9¾" soft cover |
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TOKEN TAIKAI:
1976 Northern California Japanese Sword Club Taikai
Lectures
N.C.J.S.C., R. Dunn, Editor (1976)
Contains eleven of the seventeen lectures and seminars presented at the Token Taikai held
in San Francisco, 28 July through 1 August 1976. Includes a wide range of articles
included contributed by many well recognized authors; Torigoye, Haynes, Yumoto, and
Chappelear to name only a few. Excellent research material. Supported by
b&w photos and line drawings.
191 pages, 8½
x10¾" soft cover |
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THE PROCESS OF KANTEI:
STUDY, APPRAISAL, AND ATTRIBUTION OF NIHON-TO
B.W.Kowalski
This text overviews the criteria for sword evaluation. The appendix has an excellent
outline of the evolution of shape as it relates to distinct periods, and also includes
illustrations from the NTHK novice course to demonstrate hamon variation and
activity found within, while also establishing a reference of classic styles by den.
18 pages, 8½ x 11" soft cover |
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DAS SCHWERT DES SAMURAI
Lydia Icke-Schwalbe (r.1990)
German-language introductory text on swords and kodogu
(fittings). The first section is text
followed by 46 pages of plates in color and b&w. The text addresses general
history and nomenclature. Detailed descriptions are included for each piece
pictured.
95 pages, 7¾ x 8¾" hardcover |
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WAKIZASHI NO
MIRYO KU
SHIBATA Mitsuo (1968)
This Japanese language text is unique for its focus on wakizashi. It offers
128 pages of photographic plates showing oshigata examples: nakago, full, and detail.
237 pages, 4¼ x 7" hardcover |
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TOSHO ZENSHU
Shimizu Osamu (1988)
A Japanese-language reference ranking 20,000 swordsmiths of the Koto through Gendai
periods. Similar to Hawley's
Japanese
Swordsmiths, the sections on koto, shinto, shinshinto, and gendaito smiths note where
and when each smith worked, how they signed, and the relative quality of their works.
Additionally, the text is supported by 17 pages of kokuho shown in b&w plates
and an appendix spanning a wide range of relevant study concerns.
714 pages, 6 x 8½" vinyl soft cover w/dust jacket, boxed |
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CIVILISATION
DES SAMURAI
Musee D'Ethnographie De Geneve (1991)
This French language text covers a broad range of arts related to the samurai. 80
Large format color photographs accompanied by descriptive information. Plates 42-72 are of
particular interest to students of arms & armor; includes: armor, swords, yanone,
naginata and other related items. The balance of the book is concerned with prints,
ningyo, and netsuke.
121 pages, 9½ x 13¼" hardcover, boxed |
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NIHONTO
NO KANTEI TO KANSHO
Hideaki
TSUNEISHI (r.1990)
Japanese-language manual for sword appreciation and appraisal.
Includes oshigata, diagrams, details on smiths/schools,
historical data, fold-out chart and index in Japanese.
341 pages, 5 x 7¼" soft cover
w/dust jacket |
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SPECIAL EXHIBITION OF
DR. W. A. COMPTON'S JAPANESE SWORD COLLECTION
Japanese language text with English language forward. A very special and rare
exhibit catalog of the best of the collection as presented in Japan. High quality,
large-format detail photographs offer excellent research material on these important
pieces. All of the Compton books are highly collectable. Here is an obscure
offering to make your Compton collection reference library complete.
24 pages, 8¼ x 11½" stiff Japanese paper cover |
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