Attribution & Historical Context

This katana is mumei (unsigned) and is accompanied by NBTHK Hozon papers attributing the work to Yamon Naokatsu (弥門直勝), a Shinshintō-period swordsmith active in northern Kyūshū. Naokatsu belonged to the Yamon group, a regional lineage known for maintaining conservative forging traditions rooted in earlier koto and shintō models, emphasizing practical sugata and restrained workmanship.

Blades attributed to Yamon Naokatsu are typically characterized by balanced shinogi-zukuri forms, controlled hamon—often in suguha or modest gunome—and well-forged jihada reflecting functional intent. The present sword conforms well to these traits and has been authenticated by the NBTHK as a Hozon Tōken, confirming it as a genuine and preservation-worthy Japanese sword.

Koshirae (Mountings)

The sword is presented in matching period koshirae in excellent overall condition. The fittings include:

• Saya: Lacquered scabbard with a deep, glossy finish showing age-appropriate wear and attractive patina

• Tsuba: Iron tsuba with subtle openwork and classic moteashi detail, consistent with Edo-period sensibilities

• Fuchi-kashira & Menuki: Well-matched soft metal fuchi, and kashira with understated carving and tonality that harmonizes with the tsuba

• Tsuka-ito & Same: Traditional wrapping over genuine same with uniform tightness and minimal deterioration

• Seppa: Period copper seppa complementing the overall aesthetic

The complete koshirae adds significant display and historical value, presenting the blade as a unified, museum-worthy example.