Wakizashi Made by TADAIE 忠家
Description
Mei : Hizen_koku_ju_Tadaie
Material : Tamahagane
Jihada (Jigane): Konuka-hada
Temper patterns (Hamon) : Sugu-ha and Nie
Era : Early Edo Period
Country(Kuni) : Hizen Province (Saga)
Paper(Status) : [N.B.T.H.K] Tokubetsu Hozon Token(Dec 15, 2023)
[Size]
Blade Length(Cutting edge) : 45.6cm
Curve(SORI) : 1.2cm
Width at the hamachi(Moto-Haba) : 3.1cm
Wide at the Kissaki(Saki-Haba) : 2.4cm
Thickness at the Moto-Kasane : 0.7cm
Weight (Sword Only) : 511g
Rivet Holes(Mekugiana): 1
Length of Koshirae : about 70cm
[Additional Information]
This wakizashi bears the signature Tadaie and shows characteristics of the Hizen tradition.
The hamon displays a bright and refined band-like nioiguchi, a feature commonly associated with Hizen blades. The style is reminiscent of the elegant workmanship of Ōmi Daijō Tadahiro, one of the most celebrated masters of the Hizen school. The jihada has the calm and refined appearance typical of Hizen swords, giving the blade a dignified and well-balanced impression.
The blade measures 45.6 cm in cutting edge length with a graceful curvature of 1.2 cm. The width at the machi is 3.1 cm, giving the sword a solid and well-proportioned shape. Weighing 511 g, the blade is relatively light and elegant while maintaining a strong presence.
The koshirae is also particularly attractive.
The scabbard is finished in Aogai Mijin-nuri, a traditional Japanese lacquer technique in which extremely fine fragments of mother-of-pearl are sprinkled into the lacquer surface. This creates a beautiful sparkling effect when the light reflects from the scabbard.
The fittings feature the motif of the dragonfly, known in Japan as Kachimushi (the “victory insect”). Because dragonflies never fly backward and always move forward, they have long been regarded as a symbol of victory and good fortune among the samurai class. For this reason, dragonfly motifs were often used on sword fittings as auspicious decorations wishing success and triumph.
The refined Hizen-style blade together with the elegant Aogai lacquer scabbard and auspicious samurai-themed fittings create a harmonious and visually striking example of traditional Japanese sword craftsmanship.
This is an attractive piece suitable for both collectors and appreciation.












