£950
A WW2 JAPANESE OFFICER'S SHIN GUNTO SWORD
The brass tsuba cast with floral detail and mounted beneath a similarly styled fuchi, the grip of white ray skin adorned with floral cast menuki with traditional ito wrap, the kashira of corresponding design to the fuchi, the lacquered saya with patinated tan leather outer casing; the polished blade measuring approx. 68cm in length, the whole approx. 100cm (sheathed)
Provenance: Acquired by Robert Hogarth (1914-87) following his release from the Japanese Stanley Civilian Camp in Hong Kong, where he was interned from December 1941 until the end of the War. Following his release, he served as Superintendent of Mails in Hong Kong, residing permanently there until his retirement to Scotland in the 1960s.
Thence by family descent.
Blade in a genrally tarnished condition, with patches of light surface rust. Cutting edge with a significant nick towards tip, with other lesser damage elsewhere along its length. Tsuba with some bashes/dents and sitting a little loose on the tang. Ito wrap generally worn through handling, with marks in places; beginning to fray near kashira. Minor damage to the shagreen grip surrounding the mekugi. Cast metal embellishments are well patinated and have a little play. Leather cladding of scabbard is scuffed, marked and has small tears in places. Popper-fastened strap at opening has torn off. Multiple losses to the lacquer of the inner wooden scabbard.
Nagasa measures 66cm. Scabbard measures 72.5cm.
Fees apply to the hammer price:
Room and Absentee Bids:
28.80% inc VAT*
Online and Autobids:
31.8% inc VAT*
