This blade is attributed to Sekishu Dewa Sadatsuna (石州出羽貞綱), who was active during the Bunna-Koo era (1352-1390: mid-late Nanbokucho period). The maker’s Sadatsuna lasted three generations and we believe NBTHK’s attribution was given to the first generation. Sekishu is the province located in today’s Shimane prefecture. And Dewa is the name of the village.

  Sadatsuna was the son of the first-gen Naotsuna, one of the ten apprentices of Masamune. Masamune is one of the most famous swordsmiths in Japanese history. Those ten apprentices are called Masamune Jittesu (正宗十哲).

 The first-gen Naotsuna, his father originally resided in Sagami province (today’s Kanagawa prefecture) to master OSHU DEN tradition from Masamune. Then, Naotsuna moved to Sekishu (Today’s Shimane prefecture). The maker’s name Naotsuna also lasted four generations.

  When Sadatsuna was active in the Nanbokucho period, Japan was tumultuous because the imperial court was split into two sides(south and north). There were many conflicts, and many Samurai were deployed. And Sadatsuna must have dedicated himself to forging high-quality blades for those Samurai who fought in battles.

 Sekishu is also known as Iwami koku and it was famous for producing the high-quality carbon steel for the Japanese sword. We presume Sadatsuna had easy access to this exceptionally great carbon steel to create his swords.

The mounts are fitted with hawk motif fittings and of good quality. The saya is in good condition and adds to the overall sword.  This is a good quality sword made by a Jo-Saku level maker and the son of Naotsuna (a student of Masamune). It is accompanied with NBTHK Hozon papers attesting to the smith. A excellent collectable sword.