IRON CRAFTSMANSHIP AND
THE WARRIOR SPIRIT
Tokyo National Museum: OGASAWARA Nobuo, editor (1997)
Celebrating
the fiftieth anniversary of its first exhibition to follow World War
II, the Tokyo National Museum amassed an important exhibition of bujutusu
token that included works borrowed from public and private
collections. With 351 exhibits the presentation surveys the development
of the sword while detailing major schools and periods. The
Japanese-language text is supplemented by a full 22 page, detailed
English index with essays interspersed.
378 pgs, 8¾ x 11¾" soft cover $165 |
 |
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 represented 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 $75 |
 |
TANTO (Japanese Daggers)
SUZUKI Yoshisada (r.1969)
A spectacular Japanese language reference of 120 tanto,
Kamakura through 1960 Gendai. The full
length oshigata are reproduced in b&w
photos and include detailed descriptions and history. A separate 83
page English translation accompanies this offering.
267 pgs., 6 x 8½" hardcover $175 |
 |
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" soft cover $65 |
 |
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.
387 pages, 5 x 7¼ soft cover Japanese text, and hardcover English translation
$275 |
 |
JAPANESE SWORDS & SWORD FURNITURE IN THE MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS,
BOSTON
Morihiro OGAWA (1987)
The landmark volume presenting the Boston Museum's important
collection, the nucleus of which was bequeathed by Dr. William Bigelow
who assembled his collection with the assistance of noted scholars
while residing in Japan at the turn of the Century. This
large volume includes extraordinary photography and oshigata
of the masterworks; the format and production quality made possible by
substantial grants at the time of its single printing in
Japan. The level of detail in both the images and
accompanying English-language descriptions rivals the best of any
high-end reference. Also included is the separate 38 page illustrated glossary.
423 pages, 10¼ x 14½" hardcover
$495
A Japanese-language edition is also available at $325 |
SWORDS OF IMPERIAL JAPAN:
1868-1945
CYCLOPEDIA EDITION
J.Dawson (2007)
Well more that an expanded revision of the author's 1996 work, here
Dawson has amassed a detailed study of Japanese military swords that is
the definitive text on the subject. Highly detailed color
photography of examples from international collections and period
photos address every variant of Japanese military sword
produced. The swords presented span the full range of mass
produced swords through masterworks as made by Gassan Sadakatsu.
448 pages, 8½ x 11" hardcover $125
|
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SHINSHINTO TAIKAN
IIMURA Yoshifume (1966)
The authoritative standard on Shinshinto period
swords (includes many gendaito).
Japanese-language text with outstanding, large format oshigata.
887 pages, 8¾ x 11¾" hardcover, slipcase $450 |
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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 $125 |
 |
A GLOSSARY OF THE CONSTRUCTION,
DECORATION AND USE OF ARMS AND ARMOR
(In all countries and in all times)
G.C.Stone (r.1961)
Commonly referred to as "Stone's" this is the landmark text covering a
remarkable range that is true to its name. Note the samurai in the top right of the
cover; Japanese arms, armor, and a wide array of related samurai items figure prominently
in Stone's book. Well supported by over 875 photos; it is all here and no text has ever
come close.
694 pages, 8¾ x 11½" hardcover
$95.00 |
 |
|
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SHINSHINTO NYUMON
Shibata Mitsuo (1969)
Japanese-language text on Shinshinto swords. The
book covers all the better Shinshinto
smiths. Includes oshigata, pictures,
biographical details, and yen values. An excellent and
inexpensive addition to the library of any collector interested in a Shinshinto Taikan.
240
pages, 6 x 8½" hardcover $125 |
 |
|
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 $155 |
|
THE CRAFT OF THE JAPANESE SWORD
Leon & Hiroko Kapp,
and Yoshindo Yoshihara
Details the creation of the sword as the combined efforts of: the
smith, polisher*, habaki
and fittings maker, and saya maker. The
contributions of each is detailed with step by step photographs
accompanying detailed text and many examples. In addition, comparisons
of koto and shinsakuto are
included with color, b&w photos, and many illustrations
throughout.
167 pages, 7½ x 10½" hardcover $45
* For
greater depth on polishing see Stones
& Swords
(Milhau,
1999). |
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|
NIPPON-TO:
THE JAPANESE SWORD
Inami Hakusui (1948)
This long out-of-print book was the first English language reference
written by a noted Japanese polisher/appraiser. Of note are an
assessment of five schools of swordmaking with contrast to shinto
and later blades, and Inami's account of various steps undertaken in
sword polishing. Well supported by b&w illustrations and
photos. This is a classic text acknowledged in the bibliographies of
many later works and belongs on the shelf of all students of the sword.
222 pages, 7½ x 10½" hardcover $135 |
 |
|
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THE SAMURAI SWORD: An American
Perspective
Gary Murtha (1980)
Murtha's hard-to-find, and much sought after, first book combines a wide range
of material on the Japanese sword. Chapters on history, nomenclature,
care, and handling are presented along with informative charts, illustrations,
and numerous plates in color and b&w. Limited printing of only 2000
copies.
126 pages, 8¾ x 11¼" hardcover $145 |
 |
GENDAITO MEISAKU ZUIKAN
SATO Kanzan
(1977)
From the English-language index, the noted author declares this "[a]n
illustrated book of masterpieces made by contemporary Japanese
swordsmiths". In all, the works of thirty-five contemporary toshō
are shown in large format plates with oshigata and
photographs as seen here. For students of gendaitō,
this is an important text, unique for presenting its subject in the
same format as normally reserved for blades of great antiquity.
Numbered, limited printing of only 800 editions.
10 x 14¼" cloth hardcover with slipcase
$375 |
 |
|
GENDAI
TOKO KINKO SHOKUGATA SORAN
Ono Tadashi (1977)
Japanese language text on gendai swords and
fittings. As a follow up to Ono's 1971 text, this book covers
modern artists and their craft. Includes oshigata and photographs along with
biographical information written in Japanese. While this is a
Japanese language text, it is accompanied by a separate English index
to identify the swordsmiths' work as shown.
247 pgs., 6 x 8½" vinyl soft cover w/dust jacket + English
index $125 |
 |
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" hardcover $125 |
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MODERN JAPANESE SWORDS AND SWORDSMITHS: From 1868
to the Present
Leon & Hiroko Kapp,
and Yoshindo Yoshihara (2002)
From the authors of Crafts of the Japanese Sword comes an authoritative
volume on gendaito - modern Japanese
swords. Following an informative overview detailing the
evolution of the sword of throughout the late 19th through 20th Century
and its role in Japanese society this ambitious text makes its case for
recognizing contemporary works as shin-gendaito.
The designation owing to the developments and aspirations of today's
smiths. As a welcomed addition to the bookshelves
of all students of the Japanese sword it is supported by the masterful
photography of Tom Kishida, author of Yasukuni-tosho.
223 pages, 7½ x 10½" hardcover $45 |
 |
|
ONE
HUNDRED MASTERPIECES FROM THE COLLECTION OF DR. WALTER A.
COMPTON
S.Izzard, editor (1992)
This is the well-known reference of important blades and kodogu
from the Christie's auctions of Dr. Compton's collection. These
one-hundred extraordinary examples are shown in color and b&w
plates with descriptions in both English and Japanese.
321 pages, 10¾ x 14¾" hardcover with slipcase $140 |
 |
JAPANESE
SWORDS & SWORD FITTINGS FROM THE COLLECTION OF WALTER A.
COMPTON, part I
(31
March 1992, New York)
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 $295
Interesting note - In this giant catalog and #2 all photos of the
fittings including iron works are shown in full color.
____________________________________
Read a report on the first Compton auction:
"A
Cutting-Edge Collection Earns $7.9 Million at New York Auction." |
 |
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 $210
* The contents of all three Compton Auction catalogs are included in
the JSS/US's Index to Literature. |
 |
JAPANESE
SWORDS & SWORD FITTINGS FROM THE COLLECTION OF WALTER A.
COMPTON, part III
(17 December 1992, New York)
Christies catalog of the final 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.
122 pages, 8¼ x 11¾" soft cover w/jacket $140 |
 |
NIPPON-TO: Art
Swords of Japan
Japan
Society (1976)
A large format exhibition catalog of select, important pieces from the
Compton collection. In addition to the outstanding plates and
oshigata, the supporting
text gives an excellent overview that includes advanced level material
for study.
The range of important swords shown highlight the Compton collection
while demonstrating a historical overview of Japanese art swords.
Here can be seen the changing form of the Japanese sword
through the koto, shinto, and shinshinto
periods. A very rare and important text - it should the first book to
be considered when exploring the Compton Collection.
134 pages, 10¾ x 14¾" softcover $195 |
 |
|
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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 $135 |
 |
CUTTING EDGE
Japanese Swords In The British Museum
Victor Harris (2005)
Catalog of the collection of Japanese swords and
fittings of the British Museum, "the finest collection of Japanese
swords in Europe, including examples by many of the major schools,
dating from the 12th or early 13th century to the Meiji era
(1868-1912). In 1999 a selection of almost one hundred of the finest
examples were sent to Japan for specialist polishing [and a special
exhibition followed of the] swords and their fittings together with a
small group of paintings and prints on warrior subjects".
Each item well documented, included are 27 color and 320 b&w
plates. Arranged chronologically by school; includes
bibliography.
160 pages, 8¾ x 11¼" hardcover $40 |
 |
|
COURT AND SAMURAI IN AN
AGE OF TRANSITION:
Medieval Paintings and Blades from the Gotoh Museum, Tokyo
Japan
Society (1990), N. Richard, Editor
Exhibition catalog of
paintings, calligraphy, and blades of the Kamakura period; all in color
on gloss stock except for the 24 sword blades which are shown in
b&w as is convention. Includes essays on each art
form as well as a historical overview. Each item is well
documented in this
English-language text. Limited printing of 2000 editions.
125 pages, 8¾ x 11¾"
softcover $35 |
 |
|
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ARMS
AND ARMOR OF ANCIENT JAPAN:
A Historical Survey
Southern California Token Kai (1964)
Catalog of the exhibition held in Los Angeles, 19 February through 22
March 1964. The exhibit presents Japanese swords spanning the
very early Kofun Bunka period through the
Shin-Shinto periods using 62 photographed examples. The
second half of the catalog is introduced by Robert Haynes and is
devoted to tsuba. 119 Examples are shown,
each accompanied by its description. An illustrated glossary
of sword nomenclature and bibliography are also included.
68 pages, 8½ x11" spiral bound $60 |
 |
|
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 $45 |
 |
YAMATO
KAJI NO SAIKAI
NBTHK Token Museum (1999)
A Japanese-language catalog of Yamato masterworks. Although
in Japanese, this presentation offers an excellent record of the swords
with depictions of nakago, monouchi, and sugata of each of the 8
examples shown in beautiful, large format photographs.
34 pages, 8¼ x 11¾" soft cover $38 |
 |
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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 $65
|
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MASAMUNE:
A Genius Swordsmith and His Lineage
Sano Art
Museum, Japan (2002)
A Japanese-language catalog of the important exhibition.
Includes 57 swords by 21 different smiths, and 6 pages in English
detailing the blades shown. Exceptional high-quality oshigata
and photographs make this an important reference on the Soshu
School.
169 pages, 8¼ x 11½" soft cover $150
For an informative overview
see Bob Benson's article in the JSS/US Newsletter
(April 2002). |
 |
|
|
Hanayaka na Nihon-to -
Bizen Ichimonji
FLOWER BLOSSOM ON THE JAPANESE SWORD - THE BIZEN ICHIMONJI TRADITION
(Sano
Museum, 2007)
Drawing on the resources of four museums and private collections this
catalog presents fifty-two examples with seven national treasure swords
including the Uesugi-tachi and Okadagiri.
Accessible to non-Japanese readers with its English-language index that
includes transcription of mei in romanji
and measurements. Each sword is shown in full-color
photographs detailing the unique workmanship that made Bizen
Ichimonji-to famous. This new book is identical in
format with the Sano's last special exhibition catalog and comes
slip-cased, and dated on its spine as continuation of the master tosho
series.
163 pages, 8½ x 11½ hardcover with
slipcase $165 |
 |
THE
BEAUTY OF THE SHINSAKUTO
Japan & British
Exhibition (1993)
Shinsakuto: newly made swords;
an impressive portfolio of Japan's top tosho. 28 Smiths are
included and for each one there is a detail biography, their photograph
and large format photograph example of their work. Some of the smiths
included were active during WWII such as Ozawa Masatoshi, while others
represent newer, though established talent such as Yoshihara
Yoshindo. This large format Japanese text is accompanied by a
separate English translation.
58 pages, 10 x 14¼" soft cover / plus separate 34 page English
trans. $85 |
 |
|
HIZENTO
HANDBOOK
EGUCHI Soshin, G. Robson, trans. (2003)
English translation of Hizento Hikke originally
published in conjunction with a major exhibit. Here, with
careful translation, an examination of the first generation Tadayoshi
is followed by overview of traits characteristic to the school and the
prolific line of smiths producing blades throughout the shinto
and into the shinshinto eras.
Essential, high-level study material made accessible to
English-language readers.
318 pages, 7¼ x 10¼" hard cover $90
|
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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. On this
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.
CD Format
-The entire book in CD format. $55 |
 |
|
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.
|
|
Nihon To Koza Vol.II:
KOTO Part I
Covers the koto smiths of the Kinai,
Tokaido, and Tohoku Regions. Specifically, this is Yamashiro, Settsu, Izumi,
Kawachi, and Yamato in the Kinai; Iga, Ise, Shima, Owari, Mikawa, Totomi,
Suruga, Kai, Izu, Sagami (Soshu), Shimofusa, and Hitachi on the Tokaido; and
Wakasa, Echizen, Etchu, Echigo, and Kaga on the Hokurikudo.
488 pgs., 8½ x 11" hardcover
sold
out
Nihon
To Koza Vol.III: KOTO Part II
Covers the koto smiths of Omi, Mino, Muttsu, and
Dewa on Tosando; Tanba, Tango, Tajima, Inaba, Hoki, Izumo, and Iwami on
the Sanyindo; Harima, Mimasaka, Bitchu, Bingo, Aki, and Suo on the
Sanyodo; Chikugo, Buzen, Bungo, Hizen, Higo, Hyuga, Osumi, and Satsuma
on the Saikaido.
477 pgs., 8½ x 11" hardcover $150
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 sold
out
Nihon
To Koza Vol.IV: SHINTO
Covers the period from 1596-1771. The smiths are
presented grouped under the individual kuni from
which they came. Unlike the koto period, the smiths
of this era were scattered throughout the country, so there are very
few kuni that are not mentioned in this volume.
374 pages, 8½ x 11" hardcover $225
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 $250
Nihon To Koza Vol.VI:
KODOGU Part I
Primarily concerned with tsuba, this
volume covers iron tsuba, fuchi kashira, and offers a discussion of the types of
kantei of kodogu with comparison of how tsuba are viewed in the West. Given the
volume of names involved in kodogu, considerable attention is given to
pronunciation and kanji. A 10 page pronunciation guide to 900+ kanji is
included, as is a separate 4 page pamphlet with essential terms for the study of
kodogu.
374 pgs., 8½ x 11" hardcover $150.00
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JAPANESE SWORD BLADES
Alfred Dobrée (r.1967)
Reprint of 1905 manuscript comprised of a series of essays presented at
the Royal Archaeological Institute (UK). An interesting
period text that offers a general overview on the history of Nihonto,
construction, characteristics, kanji, and an appendix that brings
various aspects of the text together toward identifying smiths by
listing the principal characteristics of their work as referenced
against charts for shape, kissaki, boshi, hamon, etc.
Supported by numerous b&w plates and charts.
69 pages, 6 x 9¾" soft cover $95 |
 |
|
A PRIMER
OF JAPANESE SWORD BLADES
B.W. Robinson (r.1955)
Robinson's period compilation of contemporary and classic sword
literature/references. This concise text offers essential
material for sword study. As a clear guide for classification
and identification this texts still holds its own despite the
duplication of its contents in many of the newer texts.
Specifically of note is the 45-page listing of swordsmiths adapted from
Toko Soran.
95 pages, 6½ x 9½" soft cover $120 |
 |
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 $70 |
|
TOKEN KAKAKU JITEN
IIDA Kazuo (1994)
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 $65 |
 |
|
THE
BOOK OF THE SWORD:
Ten Monographs on Japanese Swords
Randolph B. Caldwell, Editor (1979)
Principally divided into three sections
that consider the sword from the perspectives of: historical context,
construction, and as art. Not an entry level book despite its
very accessible text, its articles contain the well-studied viewpoints
and experiences of both Western and Japanese authors offering a wealth
of information in a concise volume; includes bibliography and
suggestions for study.
160 pages, 5¾ x 8¾" hardcover
$95 |
 |
|
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 $85 |
 |
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 $65 |
 |
|
ART
AND THE SWORD
B.Kowalski, J. McElhinney
and John J. Eliyas, editors
The bulletin of the JSS/US (Japanese Sword Society of the United
States) as was published 1988 - 2001. The complete set is
comprised of seven journals with the fifth a combined volume numbered
five and six.
ART
AND THE SWORD: 1988, Vol. 1
Contains: Hizen by R.B. Caldwell;
Hizen-To by C.Lee, J.McElhinney, and B.Kowalski; Hizen-To Oshigata by
J.McElhinney, and B.Kowalski; The Evolution of Bizen-Den by G.J.Curtis;
The development of Bizen Choji by C.A.Bird; Awataguchi Omi-no-Kami
Tadatsuna by N.Ogasawara, and T.Iida.
106 pages, 8½ x 11" soft cover $20
ART
AND THE SWORD: 1989, Vol. 2
Contains: Swords of Owari by Kentaro
Yoshikawa;The Yamashiro Tradition of Sword Making by Kensho Furuya;
Benjamin Smith Lyman and the Geological Survey of Japan (1872-1879) by
R.Goodman; Metallurgical and Other Features of Japanese Swords, Given 6
December 1895 by B.Lyman.
127ages, 6 x 9" soft cover $20
ART
AND THE SWORD: 1990, Vol. 3
Contains: Owari Tsuba by Wakayama
Homatsu; Thoughts Regarding Owari Tsuba as Predecessors of Akasaka
Tsuba by Matsumo Seiji; Shinto Yokoyama Bizen-To by B.Kowalski;
Additional Oshigata for Study of Yokoyama Bizen-To by B.Kowalski; Notes
on the Characters Used in Proper Names from the "Nanori Jibiki" of
Taikai Razan.
108 pages, 6 x 9" soft cover $20
ART
AND THE SWORD: 1991, Vol. 4
Contains: The Characteristics of Kyushu
Shinto by Kentaro Yoshikawa; Random Thoughts on Hizen Swords by Ginsaku
Kotaoka.
120 pages, 6 x 9" soft cover $20
ART
AND THE SWORD: 1995, Volumes 5 & 6
Contains: The Kyoto Shinto Tradition,
Kanto Zuikan (Random Thoughts on Example Swords) Umetada Myoju by
Kataoka Ginsaku; Example Blades of the Umetada School by Yoshikawa
Koen; Kanto Zuikan Horikawa Kunihiro by Kataoka Ginsaku; Example Blades
of the Horikawa Kunihiro School by Yoshikawa Koen; The End of the
Shogunate and The Swords of Katsumura Norikatsu by D.Garbutt.
139 pages, 6 x 9" soft cover $20
ART
AND THE SWORD: 1997, Volume 7
Contains: Kyoto Gokaji Zakkan
(Impressions of the Five Smiths of Kyoto) by Yoshikawa Koen; Kanto
Zuikan: The Mishina Den (Random Thoughts on Example Blades) by Kataoka
Ginsaku; The Pioneer (Genso) Tanba no Kami Yoshimichi by Mori
Shigetake; Kokoan Katana Banashi (Speaking of Swords at an Antiquarian
Retreat) Personal Opinions on O-Kanemichi and Omi no Kami by Konno
Shigeo; Main Branch Study Meeting Reports: The Mishina School by
Yoshikawa Koen; When did Osaka Tamba no Kami Yoshimichi Shodai Receive
His Title? by Han Bing Siong.
114 pages, 6 x 9" soft cover $20
ART
AND THE SWORD: 2001, Volume 8
Contains: [A comprehensive study of] Sengo Muramasa - two translated
articles from Token to Rekishi (NTHK) by Kataoka Ginsaku; translations
and commentary by Gordon Robson related to Sengo Masazane from the
Nihonto Meikan, and Nihonto Daihyakka Jiten by Ogasawara Nobuo, and
Nihonto no Meiso by Numata Kenji; forward by Gordon Robson.
106 pages, 6 x 9" soft cover $20
 |
1100 JAPANESE SWORD
TERMS, and 400 named blades
W.M.Hawley
A listing of over 1,100 sword related terms in both romanji and kanji
all defined in english. Cross referenced alphabetically and by subject.
A welcomed reference for all students of the sword. The three
texts of this series listed below also follow the same format.
140 pages, 8½ x 11" spiral bound $35
600
JAPANESE SWORD FITTINGS TERMS
133
pages, 8½ x 11" spiral bound $35
150
JAPANESE POLEARM TERMS
27 pages, 8½ x 11" spiral
bound $15
850
JAPANESE ARMOR TERMS
128
pages, 8½ x 11" spiral bound $35
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THE BLADES OF THE YOSHIMITSU
Yasu Kizu
A listing of the 53 Yoshimitsu smiths and survey of representative
characteristics with oshigata.
17 pages, 5½ x 8½" soft cover $4.95 |
|
MURAMASA BLADES
Yasu Kizu
Much superstition has surrounded the works of the three generations of
Muramasa, and the evil reputation is perpetuated as sword lore. This
history is considered in addition to the technical issues of
characteristics & signatures.
11 pages, 5½ x 8½" soft cover $4.95 |
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THE GOBAN KAJI OF
EX-EMPEROR GOTOBA
Yasu Kizu
Lists the groups of
Imperial Guard smiths and the secret signs that
they added to the swords that they produced.
15 pages, 5½ x 8½" soft cover $4.95 |
|
THE GREAT MASAMUNE AND
OTHER BY THAT NAME
Yasu Kizu
Primarily concerned with Masamune of Sagami Province, this text also
includes the Yamashiro and Bingo smiths of same name. Distinctive
characteristics are explored while history, oshigata, and genealogy are
also listed.
21 pages, 5½ x 8½" soft cover $5.95 |
|
BITCHU PROVINCE SWORD GROUPS
Yasu Kizu
Covers history and characteristics of the Aoe smiths: early, middle,
and late, and the Mizuta Kunishige group.
9 pages, 5½ x 8½" soft cover $4.95 |
|
SWORDSMITHS OF SATSUMA
PROVINCE
Yasu Kizu
Details Naminohira blades, and examines the influence of Soshu school
on Satsuma sword production during the shinto and shinshinto eras.
12 pages, 5½ x 8½" soft cover $4.95 |
|
THE BLADES OF THE
KANEMITSU
Yasu Kizu
Lists 42 Kanemitsu smiths, including the famous Bizen Kanemitsu, and
surveys representative characteristics & oshigata.
15 pages, 5½ x 8½" soft cover $4.95 |
|
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THE SWORDSMITHS SA OF
CHIKUZEN PROVINCE
Yasu Kizu
History and evaluation of Sa blades with oshigata examples and a chart of
the school's lineage.
13 pages, 5½ x 8½" soft cover $4.95
|
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THE SWORDSMITH FAMILY OF
TSUDA SUKEHIRO
Yasu Kizu
Examines the distinctive work of three generations of Sukehiro smiths.
12 pages, 5½ x 8½" soft cover $4.95
|
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THE SWORDSMITHS TADAYOSHI
Yasu Kizu
History and characteristics of three generations of Tadayoshi
swordsmiths. Illustrated; includes oshigata.
16 pages, 5½ x 8½" soft cover $4.95 |
|
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SWORDSMITH NAGASONE
KOTETSU OKISATO
Yasu Kizu
Examines the history and defining characteristics of Kotetsu blades.
12 pages, 5½ x 8½" soft cover $4.95
|
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THE AWATAGUCHI SHINTO
SCHOOL OF SWORD MAKING
Blaine Navroth
Covers the history of 19 masters of this school during the
shinto period and lists distinctive characteristics of their
work.
5 pages, 8½ x 11" soft cover $4.95
|
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SWORDSMITHS OF THE KAGA
PROVINCE IN THE SHINTO ERA
Yasu Kizu
Emphasizes the works of the Darani Katsukuni group and the Kanewaka
line as part of a survey of Kaga smiths active during the shinto era.
12 pages, 5½ x 8½" soft cover $4.95
|
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SUISHINSHI MASAHIDE
Yasu Kizu
Characterizes the smiths work & lists the 143 students that
followed his tradition.
20 pages, 5½ x 8½" soft cover $5.95 |
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THE SIGNATURES OF NAGANOBU
W.M.Hawley
Lists 83 distinct signatures with translation of terms.
11 pages, 5½ x 8½" soft cover $4.95 |
|
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MINAMOTO NO KIYOMARO
Yasu Kizu
Includes history, blade characteristics, oshigata for blades dated
1831-54, and a listing of notable students.
11 pages, 5½ x 8½" soft cover $4.95
|
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SWORDSMITH TAIKEI NAOTANE
W.M.Hawley, Yasu Kizu
This text covers: characteristics, history, oshigata,
a listing of notable students, and a consideration of gimei
blades.
20 pages, 5½ x 8½" soft cover $5.95
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