WAKIZASHI help

[voodoo]

I was interested in some bayonets that were for sale in my area, and the seller also said he had a japanese sword that he thought was original. The bayonets are good, but I know nothing on swords. I know the blood groove should not be painted as for the rest of the sword???? Any help appreciated.

Jeff

[voodoo]

More

[voodoo]

zz

[Bob Coleman]

Whoever did the last polish on this blade was an individual of limited skills. Red lacquer can be found that is period done. The reason being is the individual was not adept at burnishing the hi or groove so red lacquer was applied. This at times can also be found in other forms of carving on the blade.

[nickn]

may we have a better photo of the kissaki
from the photo it looks as if the tips been rounded and boshi would probably run off

[voodoo]

Thanks for the help so far. He is another shot I was sent today.

[nixe]

Bob has a good eye, in this las picture it sure looks like the kissaki has an unnatural shape, the ha makes a strange change of direction. To be sure about a boshi you wold need to see the temper and if i is there a polisher would have to repair it

[Bob Coleman]

The kissaki has definitely been broken and crudely reshaqped. The presence of lacquer in the hi is usually an indication of a blade of little merit. The temper in the point can be checked by running a copper coin across the edge. If it catches, there is still temper. From the shape of the lissaki(point), I would doubt it. The blade has pleasant low wuality fittings. It is worth the value of the mounts with the blade likely having no value.
Please note that I was not the one to mention the shape of the kissaki initially.

[nickn]

thanks bob
nick