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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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 $295 |
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TOKO TAIKAN
TOKUNO Kazuo (2004)
The final edition of the classic Japanese-language sword
reference. 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 $135 |
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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. A separate 38 page illustrated glossary
is also included.
423 pages, 10¼ x 14½" hardcover $575 |
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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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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
$310 |
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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 |
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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 less dust jacket / plus separate, full English
translation $225 |
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JAPANESE POLEARMS
R.M.Knutsen (1963)
This is the definitive English language book on Japanese
polearms. Historical material traces development and
usage. Knutsen goes into great detail on all know variants
and koshirae. Additionally, the text surveys yanone
and lists prominent swordsmiths known to have forged
polearms. Extensive illustrations: both line drawing and
b&w plates; index, and glossary.
271 pages, 7½ x 10" hardcover $225 |
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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 $175 |
THE ART OF JAPANESE SWORD POLISHING
TAKAIWA Setsuo et al (2006)
While this book
illustrates the methods, materials and tools used for art sword
polishing its true aim is to enable the reader to appreciate the beauty
of a well-crafted Japanese sword. As readers learn both how the togishi
- sword polisher enhances the beauty of the blade and how he handles
the problems of coaxing out its finest qualities through his polishing
techniques, they will come to a deeper understanding of the fine art of
making the Japanese sword and will be able to view, purchase or collect
swords with greater pleasure. Also included are profiles of
five top togishi, including Ningen Kokuho
- FUJISHIRO Matsuo.
191 pages, 7½ x 10½" hardcover $45
View
pages 112 and 113 | PayPal Quick Order |
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THE
CONNOISSEUR'S
BOOK OF JAPANESE SWORDS
(To-Ken Kantei Dokuhon)
Kokan Nagayama, 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 560 b&w illustrations.
256 pages, 71/2 x 101/8"
hardcover $70 |
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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 $175 |
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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
$475 |
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GENDAI TOKO MEIKAN
Ono Tadashi (1971)
One of the very few early references specifically focused on Gendai
period swords and smiths. Includes oshigata
and biographical information on over 200 of the top gendai smiths
written in Japanese. While this is a Japanese language text,
it is accompanied by an English index, and has been indexed in the
JSS/US Index to Japanese Sword Literature.
262 pages, 6 x 8½" hardcover + English index $175 |
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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 |
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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 $165 |
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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" hardcover $125 |
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An Oshigata
Book of
Modern Japanese Swordsmiths:
1868-1945
John Slough
(2001/04)
This much anticipated work addresses the large gap present in sword
scholarship as related to gendai-to - modern Japanese swords of the
Shinshinto, and more specifically, W.W.II era. Includes excellent
oshigata and extensive documentation. Each smith
is referenced to his listing in Hawley's Japanese
Swordsmiths, Toko Taikan, and the
Shinto volume of Nihon Toko Jiten.
This high
quality publication is further supported by vintage b&w photos,
period advertisements and exhibition results. With very few entrants to
this specific field of study, this English language work is a must for those interested in
the study of Gendaito. The hardcover edition was produced in
2004.
272 pages, 8½ x 11" 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 |
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THE NEW GENERATION OF
JAPANESE SWORDSMITHS
TSUCHIKO Tamio (2002)
Twenty notable gendaito smiths define what makes
a "fine sword" while describing their personal aspirations with regards
to their art. This insightful work gives readers unrivaled
access to first-hand information on swordmaking theory and
process. A common theme throughout the text is
"Restoration". Here restoration refers to ongoing efforts to
emulate classic koto period
masterworks. Beyond biographies, Tsuchiko demonstrates an
active community of artists as each smith is shown interacting with
others; examples include polishers, patrons, and others.
In short, this book presents each smith's understanding of Nihonto
as realized thought a lifetime's immersion in its study and
creation. It is an essential text for all sincere students of
the sword - of all periods.
256 pages, 7¾ x 10¼" hardcover $55 |
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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 $160 |
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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 $325
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." |
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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 $225
* The contents of all three Compton Auction catalogs are included in
the JSS/US's Index to Literature. |
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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 |
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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 $325 |
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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 $185 |  |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 $159 |
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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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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 |
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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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The 40th Anniversary of
Sano Art Museum, Special Exhibition -
THE FLORES OF JAPANESE SWORD MASTERS OF THE EDO
PERIOD: KOTETSU AND KIYOMARO
(Sano Museum, 2006)
Bringing together masterworks of the Shinto and Shinshinto
eras, this catalog presents seventy-one examples in a large format
reference. This special printing in commemoration of the
museum's 40th anniversary sold out quickly. 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 workmanship that made Kotetsu and Kiyomaro the most
influential smiths of their time.
159 pages, 8½ x 11½ hardcover with
slipcase $165 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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.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.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.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
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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 |
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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 |
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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 $70 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 $85 |
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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 $65 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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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