SHIBUI SWORDS
BOOKS
Nihon-to & Tsuba
Go To SHIBUI SWORDS BOOKS Chanoyu Books, Lone Wolf and Cub, Iaido, Kendo & Tai Chi Books, Other Japanese Art Subjects
Note on Care of Books:
With books, one mar or fingerprint to the ink of the pictures - one crease or crush to a page - any difference from brand-new, creates value loss and permanently sets the book back. Just as chips in a blade - or chips in the lacquer of a Saya create value loss. It is overt damage.
"Normal use" is damage to books.
Anyone having reference or collector books, antique book collectors or curators, all have the same, expected and specific method of handling books. - This is similar to proper sword etiquette being the only allowable method.
If
you have any questions or wish to purchase any book, please contact me at E-mail.
ARTS of the JAPANESE SWORD by B. W. Robinson, $140.00.
An overview of Japanese swords and fittings,
this is one of the early essential reference books produced in English. Robinson expands on the all-in-one handbook format
by including far greater detail on both specific schools of swordsmiths listed by province, and sword fittings.
Supported by 108 color and B&W photographic plates, also numerous charts and illustrations. In excellant condition, 228 pages, 6 1/4 x 10" hardcover
Picture (see A PRIMER of JAPANESE SWORD BLADES by B. W. Robinson below) (PURCHASE BOTH B.W. Robinson BOOKS for $200.00)
CUTTING EDGE Japanese Swords in the British Museum by Victor Harris. $40.00 (2005)
Catalog of the collection of Japanese swords and fittings of the British Museum, "the finest collection of Japanese swords in Europe, including examples by many of the major schools, dating from the 12th or early 13th century to the Meiji era (1868-1912)." In 1999 a selection of almost one hundred of the finest examples were sent to Japan for specialist polishing. Each item is well documented, including 27 color and 320 b&w plates. Arranged chronologically by school; includes bibliography.
In excellant condition, 160 pages, 8 3/4" x 11 1/4" hardcover w/dustjacket
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JAPANESE ART SIGNATURES by J. Self and N. Hirose. $50.00 (r.1987)
Many collectors owe their ability to read Japanese signatures to this text. This book is geared specifically toward reading art signatures, locations, and dates as appearing on Japanese art. Divided into nine sections, it specifically addresses reading: key characters, provincial and geographic names, and variant characters with extensive charts. Of special note is its catagorized listing of artists' signatures. This text serves as an introduction to the process of reading inscriptions, emphasizing 'how' with diagrams and explanations (as a text book).
In 'new' condition, 399 pages, 7" x 10" softcover w/clear dustjacket
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JAPANESE ART SERIES, SWORD by Junji Homma, $80.00
During the Allied Occupation the
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THE JAPANESE SWORD and ITS DECORATION, by Helen C. Gunsaulus (1924) Two copies, $25.00 each.
These are one of a series of large leaflets that were prepared by Chicago's Field Museum of Natural History to give an account of individual exhibits. This important collection is often referenced by contemporary texts. Includes an overview of the importance of the sword in Japanese culture and the fittings and schools associated to it. Four B&W plates, each with two or more examples. First printing.
Both in excellant condition, 25 pages, 5 1/2 x 8 3/4" softcover w/Brodart jackets
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THE JAPANESE SWORD Japanese Arts Library, by Kanzan Sato (1986) $40.00.
This volume, containing color and b&w plates, has been prepared as an introduction to the history and appreciation of
the Japanese sword. The author was one of Japan's foremost sword experts, and his knowledge is here brought to bear on every aspect of sword lore including forging techniques and problems of appraisal. Translated and adapted by Joe Earle. Japanese Arts Library Volume 12, fifth printing.
In excellant condition, 210 pages, 7 1/2 x 10 1/2" hardcover w/dustjacket
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THE JAPANESE SWORD A Comprehensive Guide by Kanzan Sato. $30.00
A well illustrated introduction to the appreciation and history of the Japanese Sword. As an overview of 1500 years of sword history, it includes: history, various aspects of sword lore, forging techniques and problems of appraisal. The book's centerpiece is a detailed examination of over a dozen important blades, 29 color illustrations. Translated and adapted by Joe Earle.
In excellant condition, 210 pages, 7 1/2 x 10 1/2" hardcover w/dustjacket
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THE JAPANESE SWORD, The Soul of the Samurai by Gregory Irvine. $160.00
From the collection of the Victoria & Albert Museum (UK), this book presents an illustrated survey that examines the development of the Japanese sword in a social and historical context. The unique perspective of the text is well supported by high quality photographs of swords, mountings, and prints throughout. Photos are in color with the exception of the sword blades as is traditional. A beautiful work that belongs on the shelf of every enthusiast.
In excellant condition, 128 pages, 8 3/4" x 10" hardcover w/dustjacket
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JAPANESE SWORD BLADES by Alfred Dobree (r. 1971), $50.00
Reprint of the 1905 manuscript comprised of a series of essays presented at the Royal Archaeological Institute (UK). An interesting period text that offers a general overview on the history of Nihonto, construction, characteristics, kanji, and an appendix that brings various aspects of the text together toward identifying smiths by listing the principal characteristics of their work as referenced against charts for shape, kissaki, boshi, hamon, etc.
Supported by numerous b&w plates and charts.
73 pages, 5 1/2" X 8 1/2", softcover w/ brodart dustcover.
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KINKO NO BI , $40.00
The pieces shown in this book are masterpieces assembled for a special exhibition at the Kiyomizu Sannenzaka Museum in Kyoto. This book belongs in the library of all lovers of Japanese swords and fittings.
The book is in Japanese except for the English Introduction, Afterward, and the makers names.
84 pages, 15.5cm X 22cm, hardcover w/ brodart dustcover.
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KINKO MEIKAN (new edition), $250.00
This book is a must for referencing signatures of metal workers who made Japanese sword fittings.
This is the best overall reference book for this purpose and is considered the Bible.
The book is in Japanese but an English translation will be included.
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The six (listed below) catalogues of the KOKUSAI TOSOGU KAI have become 'Collectors Items' due to the high quality of photography, access to numerous unpublished pieces and quality articles.
KOKUSAI TOSOGU KAI 2005 International Convention & Exhibition, Edited by Nick Nakamura , $120.00
This is the catalog from the first exhibition of the Kokusai Tosogu Kai, an international group dedicated to the study and appreciation of tosogu, or Japanese sword fittings. Held in Louisville, Kentucky, the exhibition featured items from Canadian, US, and Japanese collections. The Japanese-owned items, most never having been exhibited outside of Japan, were professionally photographed for the catalog, and reproduced to the highest standards. The catalog also features a fourteen page article by Robert Haynes, "My First Sixty Years as a Student of Kodogu," complemented by photos from his personal archives documenting his years of study. Also included is an insightful colloquy between the president of the Sano Museum in Mishima and the director of the NBTHK on "Sukashi Tsuba, Their Use and Aesthetic Beauty." First Edition, limited to 600 copies.
Commentary and index in English with Japanese captions. 108 pages, 8 1/2" x 12" hardcover with slipcase, limited printing of 400.
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KOKUSAI TOSOGU KAI 2006 International Convention & Exhibition, Edited by Nick Nakamura , $100.00
This is the catalog from the second exhibition of the Kokusai Tosogu Kai. It presents seventy-one expertly photographed and documented examples along with two articles: "Kirishitan Ikenie Tsuba" by Fred Geyer, and an interview of Kengo Sekido by Taeko Watanabe - "In Search of the True Image of Goto Yujo and the Essence of his Engraving Techniques". A summary of the group's first (2005) convention follows with detail of seven tsuba not included in the preceding publication. Commentary and index in English with Japanese captions.
8 1/2" x 12", 115 pages. Hard Cover with Slipcase. Limited to 400 copies.
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KOKUSAI TOSOGU KAI 2005 International Convention & Exhibition SUPPLEMENT
Published in 2007 by Richard George, SOLD
This is the supplement to the catalog of the first exhibition of the Kokusai Tosogu Kai. Logistics prevented the US and Canadian owned items from being included in the original catalog. This supplement, produced by Richard George, contains the professionally photographed pieces from the convention that were excluded. The catalog also features a thorough twenty-nine page article by Richard George entitled "A Brief Survey of Tsuba to the Early Edo Period," and a brief article by Timothy Evans on "Tensho Koshirae and Antiquarian Revivals". Very essential for those who have the original catalog.
First Printing, 109 pages. Softback 8 1/2" x 12" with clear cover.
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KOKUSAI TOSOGU KAI 2007 International Convention & Exhibition, Edited by Nick Nakamura , $50.00
This is the catalog from the third exhibition of the Kokusai Tosogu Kai held at the Frazier International History Museum. Features ten koshirae, each expertly photographed and documented in both English and Japanese.
Limited printing of 400, 23 pages, 8 1/2" x 12" soft cover.
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KOKUSAI TOSOGU KAI 2008 International Convention & Exhibition, Edited by Nick Nakamura , $90.00
This is the catalog from the fourth exhibition of the Kokusai Tosogu Kai, and the most comprehensive of the KTK series. This book is in dedication to Kengo Sekido-sensei who passed away in February 2008. Sekido-sensei was one of the foremost collectors of tosogu in Japan, and some of his finest pieces are featured in this edition. Masterworks from the Sekido Collection include Natsuo, Iwamoto Konkan, Ishiguro Masayoshi, and Murakami Jochiku. This edition also features exceptional pieces from private international collections, covering major schools of both iron and soft metal from the Nanbokucho through late Edo periods. Tosogu cover Ko-katchushi, Tachishi, Owari, Shoami, Akasaka, Yagyu, Nanbam, Saotome, early Goto, Umetada, Ko-kinko, Mogarishi Soten, Yasuchika, Hirata Hikozo and Hamano among others.
In addition, this edition includes an article detailing the development of Ezo tosogu from both historical and artistic perspectives. It covers the evolution of the Ezo tradition from the Heian through early Edo periods, discusses possible affiliations to other groups, and addresses gaps in our knowledge of this important early group of tosogu. It is the first work to include a synopsis of Ezo metallurgy utilizing scanning electron microscopy on multiple pieces.
Limited to 400 copies, English and Japanese text. 99 pages, 8 1/2" x 12" hardcover with slipcase.
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KOKUSAI TOSOGU KAI 2009 International Convention & Exhibition, Edited by Nick Nakamura , SOLD
This is the catalog from the fifth exhibition of the Kokusai Tosogu Kai. The latest installment of this series, it was published in conjunction with the Nihonto Bunka Shinko Kyokai (NBSK). This edition features exceptional pieces from private international collections as well as the Sano Museum, covering major schools of both iron and soft-metal from the Nanbokucho through late Edo periods. Tosogu cover Ko-katchushi, Tachishi, Ezo, Owari, Ko-shoami, Akasaka, Yamakichibei, Kaneie, Yagyu, Nanbam, Saotome, early Goto, Onin, and Ko-kinko among others. In addition, this edition includes two articles: first an article by Andrew Mancabelli detailing the evolution of the habaki from the Kofun through Momoyama periods, and second, an article by Saulus Ploplys entitled The Mon as a Design Element of Tsuba.
Limited to 400 copies, 102 pages. 8 1/2" x 12" hardcover with slipcase. English and Japanese text.
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LETHAL ELEGANCE: The Art of Samurai Sword Fittings by Joe Earle (2004), $50.00
"The Japanese sword is famously both the symbol and instrument of Japanese military prowness". More than the weapon itself, it was the swords metal fittings - from the handguard to the small decorative plates on the hilt - that reflected the complexities of Samurai life. Some fittings were meant to convey the honor and self-control expected of a Samurai while on official duty, while other, more flamboyant ones reflected his leisure-time persona as "man about town". Later, when the wearing of the swords spread beyond the Samurai class, both the decorative function of the fittings and the variety of their designs sharply increased, leading to some of the most sophisticated and accomplished metalwork ever created."
256 pages, 8 1/2" X 9 1/4" hardcover w/ dustjacket.
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MASAMUNE: A Genius Swordsmith and His Lineage by Sano Art Museum, Japan (2002). $150.00
A well illustrated Japanese-language catalog of the important exhibition. Includes 57 swords by 21 different smiths, and 6 pages in English detailing the blades shown. Exceptional high-quality oshigata and photographs make this an important reference on the Soshu School.
In 'like new' condition, 169 pages, 8 1/4" x 11 1/2" softcover w/clear cover
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MINO-TO: Swords & Swordsmiths of Mino Province by M.E. Cox, $50.00
The definitive English language reference on Mino swords; covers Koto through Shinshinto examples. When cosidered that of the Five Schools, the greatest number of swords can be attributed to the Mino tradition. These are the swords that collectors are most likely to encounter. Includes: historical material, construction, evolution, lists of kaji, groups, and over 100 pages of oshigata. A separate 34 page supplement is also included.
In excellant condition, 8" X 11 1/2", 268 pages, softcover w/ brodart dustcover.
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MODERN JAPANESE SWORDS and SWORDSMITHS: From 1868 to the Present
by Leon & Hiroko Kapp, and Yoshindo Yoshihara (2002) $45.00
An authoritative volume on Gendaito - modern Japanese swords. Following
an informative overview detailing the evolution of the sword throughout the late 19th through 20th century and its role in Japanese
society this ambitious text makes its case for recognizing contemporary works as Shin-gendaito.
The designation owing to the developments and aspirations of todays smiths. As a welcomed addition to the bookshelves
of all students of the Japanese sword it is supported by the masterful photography of Tom Kishida. Like new condition, 223 pages, 7 1/2 x 10 1/2"
hardcover.
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MUROMACHI-KI MINO TOKO no KENKYU
by Suzuki (2006) $180.00
Using all art paper with oshigata tangs or blades of Koto Mino swords on 280 pages, plus genealogical tables, maps and other illustrations in the text. No Shinto smiths covered, a useful book as it covers all the various groups in Mino, not just Seki.
Like new condition, 377 pages, 8 1/2 x 11 3/4"
hardcover with slip case.
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The NEW GENERATION of JAPANESE SWORDSMITHS by Tsuchiko Tamio (2002), $55.00
Twenty notable gendaito smiths define what makes a "fine sword" while
describing their personal aspirations with regards to their art. This insightful work gives readers unrivaled access to first-hand information on swordmaking theory and process. A common theme throughout the text is "restoration". Here restoration refers to ongoing efforts to emulate classic Koto period masterworks. Beyond biographies, Tsuchiko demonstrates an active community of artists as each smith is shown interacting with others; examples include polishers, patrons, and others. In short, this book presents each smiths understanding of Nihonto as realized thought a lifetime's immersion in its study and creation.
It is an essential text for all sincere students of the sword - of all periods. Like new condition, hardcover with 256 pages, 7 3/4 x 10 1/4"
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NIHON-no-BIJUTSU,
set of four for $160.00
Volume 64, Sword Fittings by Kajima Susumu.
In good condition, 7in X 9in, 108 pages, published in 1971.
Volume 127, Kimono's. In good condition, 7in X 9in.
Volume 332, Sword Fittings
by Ogasawara Nobuo. NEW,
7in X 9in, 98 pages.
Volume 431, Japanese Sword,
All volumes are published under the
supervision of the National Museums of
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This long out-of-print book is a 'collectable' written by a famous sword author and professor. This book explains everything about Japanese Swords: the process of swordmaking, major smiths and provinces, the various shapes, various steps in sword polishing, maintenance of the sword, apprasials and about national treasure class swords. Well supported by b&w illustrations and photos. This is a classic text and belongs on the shelf
of all students of the sword. Good condition, softcover with 225 pages, 11.2cm X 17.3cm. Text in Japanese.
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NIHONTO no KANTEI
to KANSHO by Tsuneishi
Hideaki, $50.00
Great set with Hideaki's Nihonto
no Kenkyu to Kansho. This
book is for the appraisal and appreciation of Nihonto.
It contains the history of Nihonto, basic knowledge
for Kantei, Smith's characteristics and their family
lines. Published in 1968, 320 pages, 5 3/8 x 7 3/8" hardcover w/ dustjacket. Japanese language.
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NIHONTO JITEN by Tokuno Kazuo, $100.00
Published in 1973. This book bares distinction as its 110 pages of oshigata of important smiths of the Koto through Gendai periods
has been made accessible to English-language users through the JSS/US' index of sword literature - a testament of its utility as a tool
of study. Further, the oshigata here are of higher quality than seen in the 1977 text because of its larger size. Like the later work, this Japanese-language
reference includes biographical information for each listed smith, and cites relative Yen values for comparison.
Great set with his 'Nyumon Nihonto Zukan'. Book size
is 7 1/4 x 10 1/4" hardcover, 263 pages. Japanese language.
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NIHONTO JITEN by Tokuno Kazuo, $60.00
This book is basic and
contains unusual, fundamental information. Change of sugata,
variations of hamon, jihada,
and boshi are explained with good illustrations from
Koto era to Gendai era. The best feature of this book
is the 1500 famous smith's list being well organized with selected oshigata and price. From the author of the well known Toko Taikan, this book bares distinction as its pages of oshigata of important smiths of the Koto through Gendai periods has been made accessible through the JSS/US Index of Sword Literature - a testament of its utility as a tool of study. New edition, printed in 2000. Great set with his 'Nihonto Zukan'. Book size
is 16cm X 22cm, 272 pages. Japanese language.
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NIHON TOU KOUZA by Kamata Saburo-Taifu, $150.00
This the 8th volume of the Nihon To Koza (Japanese Sword Lecture). Book size
is 9.5 x 6.5 inches. xxx pages. Japanese language.
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NIHONTO ZUKAN by Tokuno Kazuo, $60.00
One of the well known and impressive books
written by the famous Tokuno Kazuo. This book explains the history of Nihonto
development from Heian era,
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NIHONTO KANSHO no SHIORI from Sano Art Museum, $100.00
This small book introduces the Nihonto and koshirae in Sano Art Museum with the
title of 'Appreciation Guide'. Sano Art museum, founded by Sano Takakazu after the Pacific War,
has lots of valuable blades including Kokuho Nagamitsu's Naginata. This catalog contains about 50 blades with clear photos
and explanations. Especially, this book shows the hada of blades very well. Book size
is 15cm X 21cm, 64 pages. Japanese language.
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These long out-of-print books were the first English language
reference written by a noted Japanese polisher/appraiser. Of note are an
assessment of the five schools of swordmaking with
contrast to Shinto and later blades, and Inami's
account of various steps undertaken in sword polishing. Well supported by b&w illustrations and photos. These are a classic text
acknowledged in the bibliographies of many later works and belong on the shelf
of all students of the sword. Good condition and signed by author with Poor hardcover(no dust jacket) and Very Good condition with dust jacket, with 222 pages, 7 1/2in X 10 1/2in.
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OSAFUNE CHOSHI TOKEN HEN by Osafune Town-History Committee. $250.00 (1988)
A detailed study of Bizen Osafune smiths and blades. This two-volume Japanese language set presents historical materials on the Osafune sword-making tradition in volume one, and a second volume with photographs and traditional oshigata. An outstanding value and essential tool for students of Osafune blades.
NEW, 728 pages in total, 8 1/2" x 12" hardcover w/slipcase
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A PRIMER of JAPANESE SWORD BLADES
by B.W. Robinson (r.1955) $100.00 (PURCHASE BOTH B.W. Robinson BOOKS for $200.00)
Robinson's period compilation of contemporary and classic sword literature/references. This concise text offers essential material for sword study. As a clear guide for classification and identification this text still holds its own despite the duplication of its contents in many of the newer texts. Specifically
of note is the 45-page listing of swordsmiths adapted from Toko Soran. Book size
is 6 1/2 x 9 1/2", 95 pages, soft cover.
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beauty and charming Japanese 19th century metal work.
Fine catalog presents Bakumatsu and Meiji-era tsuba from the collection of the Kiyomizu San'nanzaka Museum in Kyoto Japan. Many decorative styles (yoshiki) and techniques were devised..when wealthy merchants could outdo daimyo in financial power and so ordered ornate items including up-market materials..from metalworkers. Japanese language with English table of contents, forward, and tsuba-ko noted for each piece in romanji. Vivid, full-color photography on high quality stock. This is an excellant reference for students of tsuba. NEW, softcover w/ dust jacket, 96 pages, 8 3/4in X 11 1/2in.
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Three Book Set by Gary Murtha, set of three below for $300.00
The SAMURAI SWORD An American Perspective
by Gary Murtha, (1980) $140.00
Murtha's hard-to-find, and much sought after, first book combines a wide range of material on the Japanese sword. Chapters on history, nomenclature, care, and handling are presented along with informative charts, illustrations, and numerous plates in color and b&w. Limited printing of only 2000 copies. First edition with 126 pages, 8 3/4 x 11 1/4" hardcover.
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JAPANESE SWORDGUARD ARTISTS
by Gary Murtha, (1982) $60.00
A hard-to-find, compilation of tsuba artists, schools, and limited number of plates with descriptions. Murtha compiled a very useful quick reference source that is sought after by all collectors. Also he references books and clubs of interest.
Limited signed edition with 80 pages, 8 1/2 x 11" softcover.
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The SAMURAI SWORD An American Perspective Vol.2 Sword Fittings
by Gary Murtha, (1984) $140.00
An informative compilation of biographical material on tsuba schools and artists. Central to this reference is a 97-page listing of tsuba-ko and koa - personal seals. This text is alphabetized for the
romanized spelling of artists names. Kanji are listed as are the periods active and genealogy. There is no reference to relative value. Many examples in both b&w and color plates. A very useful text for research.
156 pages, 8 3/4 x 11 1/4" hardcover.
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Seven Books below by SASANO Masayuki All for $1000.00
EARLY JAPANESE SWORD GUARDS: Sukashi Tsuba
by Sasano Masayuki, (1972) $240.00
A landmark text by a noted Japanese authority on tsuba. Starting with 26 pages considering the historical development of tsuba and the major schools, Sasano presents a solid foundation for the selected examples that follow. 216 Examples are shown; one example per page supported by assessments which include the author's insight on aesthetic qualities - an important consideration for understanding artistic works. Care and preservation are also addressed. Full size b&w photos; glossary.
First edition with 284 pages, 7 1/2" x 10 1/2" hardcover.
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TOSOGU NO KIGEN
by Sasano Masayuki, (1979) $265.00
Published in 1979, this text focuses on the changing form of Uchigatana Tsuba, Kozuka, and Kogai while demonstrating that the earliest forms can be traced back far earlier than previously held. Extensive descriptions and details, a unique work by an equally unique and progressive scholar. White Cloth, Paper Labels Front Cover and Spine, Plastic slipcover and original cloth covered board case. Text in Japanese, Many illustrations of Tsuba, Swords, Kogai and Kozuka, all picture captions are translated into English. Limited to 2000 copies, of which this is # 1606.
First edition with 257 pages, 10.5" x 7.5" hardcover with slipcase. Near Fine.
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TOSOGU NO KANSHO
by Sasano Masayuki, (1982) $200.00
Surveying both iron and soft metal tosogu and drawing on exceptional examples from private collections, this publication of the Shoyu Kai study group is fully captioned in English and makes evident the broad range of Sasano's expertise. Detailed photography on gloss stock for optimal clarity.
First edition with 82 pages, 8 1/2" x 12" hardcover.
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KAGAMISHI TSUBA
by Sasano Masayuki, (1980) $100.00
One tsuba per page with facing Japanese caption. Inscription in kanji in front cover - Signed Sasano book, it is his name and signature. Separate 10 page translation of the introductory material and captions for each of the 22 tsuba.
First edition with 48 pages, about 7" square, green hardcover.
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HIGO IROGANE TSUBA
by Sono Heiji, (1984) $100.00
One tsuba per page with facing Japanese caption.
First edition with 48 pages, about 7" square, red cloth hardcover.
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TSUBA TO KOSHIRAE
by Hiroi Yuichi, (1987) $100.00
One tsuba per page shown with facing Koshirae and Japanese caption.
First edition with 44 pages, about 7" square, blue cloth hardcover.
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JAPANESE SWORDGUARDS: Masterpieces from the Sasano Collection
by Sasano Masayuki, (1994) $250.00
297 Outstanding examples of sukashi tsuba are presented here in the final volume to come from noted expert Masayuki Sasano. Like his important 1972 reference (above), this volume is set up in gallery format - one tsuba per page plus commentary. A historical preface is supported by a unique demonstration in chart form which uses classic examples to assist the reader in placing tsuba to a given period. An essential text for students of iron sukashi tsuba.
341 pages, 8 1/2" x 12" hardcover.
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Contributions of SASANO MASAYUKI
SHINHAN TOSHO ZENSHU
by Shimizu Osamu, $80.00
This book is a complement to Nihonto
Meikan. It was first published in 1957 by a
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SHINTO BENGI OSHIGATA by W.M. Hawley $80.00
A well illustrated production of the lesser but important oshigata of Shinto era smiths. The reproductions are surprisingly accurate and have details of chisel strokes that enable checking for forgeries. The date of publication take it from the end of Koto to the beginning of the Shinshinto era. This means that the rubbings were taken from un-rusted (new) tangs giving very clear reproductions.
In 'new' condition, 164 pages, 8 3/4" x 11 3/8" hardcover w/clear dustcover
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SWORDS & SWORD SMITHS of BIZEN PROVINCE by Frederick Fimio. $140.00 (2004)
This book represents the only comprehensive work of its type in english - a source book on Bizen swords produced during the Koto through Gendai periods that draws on many scholarly references such as: Fujishiro's Nihon Toko Jiten, NBTHK journals, the Nihonto Koza, Hawley's Japanese Swordsmiths, and many other well known titles. Starting with an overview of the history and development of the swords produced in the region, an extensive glossary, diagrams and twenty-three plates of oshigata, the book's final synthesis is a 185-page annotated listing of Bizen smiths that references back to the above, previously listed texts and others while also adding the author's insight gained in 50 years collecting experience during which time Bizen works had become the focus of his studies. A helpful work for all students of Bizen-to. Limited printing of only 200 copies.
In excellant condition, 271 pages, 8 1/4" x 10 3/4" hardcover w/clear dustjacket
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Estimated to be authored in 1736, this is the oldest monograph on the appreciation of the tsuba. The hand-written original has long been lost, but over the years numerous hand-copies were made among tsuba and sword enthusiasts (Toban Zufu or Toban Zuroku). Since the extant copies were becoming scarce and out of reach of average tsuba enthusiasts, Shibata Mitsuo undertook the project of publishing the book in a modern format in 1967. This book is the result of that effort. Original text and illustrations (taken from several reliable copies in existance) are duplicated in large pages, and modern typesetting was added to enable today's audience to read the cursive classical writing.
The direct translation of the title is "Orally transmitted secret of the appreciation of the tsuba," but "How to appreciate the tsuba" would be much more appropriate for the content. Excellant condition, tan clothcover and slipcase with 210 pages, 7 1/2in X 10 1/2in. Text in Japanese.
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This out-of-print book is new yet published in 1971. Written by a noted Japanese sword expert in Tokyo. Of note are an assessment of the Japanese sword from Kamakura era to Showa era. This is a classic text
of 70 pages of pictures of nakago, hamon, and fittings along with major sword smith information. Also contains information on Kinko fittings and a year chart. This new book belongs on the shelf
of all students of the sword. NEW condition, black hardcover and slipcase with 304 pages, 6 1/8in X 8 1/2in. Text in Japanese.
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This out-of-print book is new yet published in 1971. Written by a noted Japanese sword expert in Tokyo. Of note are an assessment of the Japanese sword from Kamakura era to Showa era. This is a classic text of 70 pages of pictures of nakago, hamon, and fittings along with major sword smith information. Also contains information on Kinko fittings and a year chart. This new book belongs on the shelf of all students of the sword. NEW condition, black hardcover and slipcase with 322 pages, 6 1/8in X 8 1/2in. Text in Japanese.
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This long out-of-print classic reference book is illustrated with drawings, oshigata and photographs written by a well noted and highly respected authority. This is a classic text that belongs on the shelf of all students of the sword. Good condition, no loose or worn pages. 344 pages, published in Tokyo in 1955. 4 1/4in X 6 3/4in. Text in Japanese.
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by Kawaguchi Wataru, Kotou Tsuneo, Iwamoto Tsuranosuke, and Saito Katsumi.
This is an excellant book of Oshigata. Well supported by b&w illustrations and photos. This is a classic text
acknowledged in the bibliographies of many later works and belongs on the shelf
of all students of the sword. Good condition, hardcover with 222 pages, 7 1/2in X 10 1/2in.
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TOKEN YORAN
by Iimura Yoshiaki, $40.00
This is a small pocket size book and excellant
reference. It contains invaluable information and shows the insight of the
author, Iimura Yoshiaki, famous for his Taikan series. This book is forty chapters including 284
pages of oshigata, 70 pages of Tsuba,
Kodogu, and Tsuka, 110
pages of blade price list and smith rankings, 120 pages of kaji
and kinko family lines, and more. NEW
edition with green silk cover, 11.5cm X 16.5cm, 761 pages. Japanese language.
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TSUBA no BI 'Beauty of Tsuba'
by Susumu Kashima, Eiroku Hayashi and Hirokichi Matsunaga, $70.00 (r.1947)
This book is really worth having and provides a very wide coverage of iron plate and sukashi tsuba. This book is a must for any library. In Japanese, but the black and white photos and range of tsuba are very informative. 8 1/2in X 12in, 248 pages. Fine condition with slipcase. Japanese language.
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YUSHU TOKEN 'Catalogue of Excellent Swords'
by Nihon Token Hozon Kai, $250.00 (r.1979)
This is volume one (of three volumes) of the Yushu Token book published by the NTHK in Japan. This is the rating given to swords that compares to the Juyo Token rating of the NBTHK. Long out of print, this book contains oshigata and write-ups on 150 blades of the finest quality. There are fine black and white photos of some blades. What makes this book a truly valuable study aid is the complete English translation which accompanies it. This book is a must for any library. 8 1/2in X 12in, 203 pages. Fine condition with slipcase. Japanese language.
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If
you have any questions or wish to purchase any book, please contact me at E-mail.