NIHONTO Study Books
UPDATED May 2012
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.
LEGEND: NA - Not Available, $NFS - Not For Sale.
AKITA no JUTO from Akita Branch of Nihon Shyuka Token Kai, 1981, NA
This 350 limited printed book was published in 1981 to show the secretive blades in Akita Ken. 125 remarkable blades have been preserved for a long time and these are exposed in this book for the first time. Large oshigata and sugata of blades are quite clearly photographed with blade information. This book will be a great asset for the serious Nihonto collector. 252 pages, 21cm X 29.5cm large size with excellent silk hard cover. This book has been 'not for sale' book and extremely hard to find. Out-of-print.
Japanese language.
THE ARTS OF THE JAPANESE SWORD
& A PRIMER OF JAPANESE SWORD-BLADES by B.W. Robinson, $250.00 for both
(THE ARTS book) An overview of
Japanese swords and fittings, this is one of the early essential reference books
produced in English. Compared with Yumoto's The Samurai Sword, here 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. 228 pages, 6¼ x 10" hardcover $150.00.
(A PRIMER book)
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 texts 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. 95 pages, 6½ x 9½" soft cover $120.00. 
BUSHIDO
MAGAZINES An International Journal of Japanese Arm's
by
Robert Benson & Elton K. Ericson, co-publishers. $200.00 for a set of nine or $25.00 each.
A quarterly magazine
covering all of the weapons used by the Samurai. The objective of these
magazines was a means of getting information out to collectors on any of the art
work associated with the Samurai. The magazines have excellent articles on
swords, tsubas, sword fittings, armour, pole arms, archery and matchlock guns.
All in excellent condition, approx. 50 pages, 7 1/4" x 10 1/8" softcover
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
FUKUNAGA SUIKEN
Was very active in many of the pre-war, wartime and post-war sword groups. Including the NTHK under Yoshikawa sensei as well as the NBTHK. He was shinsa-in at both organizations. He traveled to the USA in the 1970's, alone and with the NTHK, where he did do some sayagaki and issued some papers of his own though not as part of any group.
The below volumes are some of his 'major' works.
HIZEN NO KATANA TO TSUBA by Fukunaga Suiken and Terada Raisuke. NA (1974)
This complete 2 volume set of books are well known especially for Hizen-to collectors. Absolutely gorgeous content explaining all generations of Tadayoshi line, Kawachi Daijo Madahiro line, Munetsugu line, Shinryo line, Katsusada line, and so on. Volume 1 (370 pages) explains all these smith lines with their features and differences. Volume 2 (357 pages) has very clear full-size oshigata with tsuba/kodogu chapter. These books are quite rare and hard to find. Excellant condition with their originalboxes. Book size is 19cm X 26.5cm.
HYUGA NO KATANA TO TSUBA by Fukunaga Suiken. NA (1975)
Oshigata and black & white photos of the swordsmiths and tsuba artists of Hyuga Province. 7 1/4" X 10 1/4", 214 pages in Japanese. Hardbound with slipcase.
KUBIKIRI ASAEMON TO-KEN OSHIGATA by Fukunaga Suiken. NA (1970)
Tameshigiri (Cutting Test) was a practical way to judge the sharpness of the blade in Nihonto. Using condemned criminals, this cutting test was done by various methods. These two books written by Fukunaga Sensei show the history of Tameshigiri, its system, method, and cutting tested blades with their oshigatas. Based on the famous Yamada Family's secretive book 'Token Oshigata' and their methods to examine the blade sharpness, many real photos and pictures are well illustrated. Hundreds of famous blade and their oshigata which did cutting tests are listed. Volume I is 225 pages and volume II is 211 pages. Published in 1970, 19cm X 26.5cm, and ivory silk hard cover. Books are in excellent condition.
KYOTO NO TOKEN by Fukunaga Suiken. NA (1976)
Oshigata, photos, and drawings covering the great smiths of Kyoto (Yamashiro). Clothbound with plastic jacket and slipcase. 7 1/2" X 10 1/2", 237 pages in Japanese.
NIHONTO DAIHAYKKA JITEN (Nihonto Encyclopedia) by
Fukunaga Suiken, date, NA
These complete 5 volumes of Nihonto Encyclopedia are written by the famous Token scholar Fukunaga Suiken. Fukunaga Sensei is a medical doctor but he is also well known as a credible Token scholar. His kantei is one of the faithful papers. These books are limited printing and literally 'Big Dictonary'. Out of printed and quite hard to find. There are many oshigata books but these books explain the every terms which are encountered in Nihonto Study. Of course, lots of swordsmiths and information are well explained. Photos are quite clear and high quality. Pages are more than 1700 in total and size is 19cm X 26cm. $600 Out-of-print.
Japanese language.
NIHONTO no KANTEI to
KENMA by Fukunaga Suiken and Omura Kunitaro. NA
(out of print)
This book is the only book which explains the
Nihonto polishing and its kantei. Published in 1975 with original slipcase. It
contains a lot of oshigata for about 150 pages and explains the activity of the
hamon and features on the blade following the smiths. Polishing method, tools,
and the way to choose good blades are well explained. 272 pages, 19cm X 26cm
hardcover.
NIHONTO MEIKO-DEN by Fukunaga Suiken. (1964)NA
(out of print)
412 pages, 18.5cm X 13.2cm hardcover.
SATSUMA NO KATANA TO TSUBA by Fukunaga Suiken. NA (1974)
SHOWA TO-KEN MEIMONO CHIYO by Dr. Murakami Takasuke, published by students Fukunaga Suiken and Shibata Mitsuo. $400.00 (1979)
The late Dr. Murakami Takasuke was one of the famous appraisers who worked in Showa Era. His kanteisho are regarded as one of the accurate papers. Many clear photos and oshigatas are from private collections in Japan, only seen in this book. From Koto to Gendaito, about 300 blades are shown very well. 19cm X 26.5cm, original slipcase, brown silk hardcover, 369 pages.
IMPORTANT JAPANESE SWORDS and SWORD FURNITURE and WORKS OF ART, CHRISTIE'S, New York 1980. $40.00 (1972)
More than 300 illustrated items, index to Kodugu
artists signed examples, and index of sword smiths. From the property of Public
and Noted West Coast Private Collections, East and West Coast Museum of Renown
and from various other sources. In very good condition, 189 pages, 8" x 10"
softcover
JAPANESE ART
SIGNATURES by J. Self and N. Hirose. $75.00
(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 addresses reading: key characters, provincial and geographic names,
and variant characters with extensive charts. Of 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 Brodart
dustjacket 
JAPANESE ART SERIES,
SWORD by Junji Homma, $80.00
During the Allied Occupation the
THE JAPANESE SWORD
Japanese Arts Library, by Kanzan Sato (1986) $25.00.
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 
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 
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.
JAPANESE SWORDS and Sword Furniture in the Museum of Fine Arts Boston by
name, date, NA
This is one of very well-known English reference and sought by many people. About 400 items of swords and kodogu are listed with excellent photo and documentation. Lots of juyo level blades and sword fittings are well organized. Book is quite heavy and large, 26cm X 37cm. 423 pages, published in 1997.
KOKON KAJI BIKO by
Yamada Yoshimutsu, 1975, NA
This book is a legendary book which has been sought
by many Nihonto lovers and is considered as one of the best books ever
published. Originally published in 1830 as 7 volumes, this is the later limited
edition which is organized as 3 volumes. This book is also listed in Hawley's
reference list as one of the most accurate references. It contains much
information and history about the development of Nihonto, about 9500 smith names
and their family lines, and hundreds of valuable oshigata in volume 3.
Hardcovers with original case and original box. Book size 19cm 27cm, 788 pages.
Japanese language.
KOTETSU TAIKAN by
Dr.s Homma & Sato. 1974 $400.00
Clothbound with slipcase, 10 ¼ x 14 ½”, 515 pages. Photographs and oshigata of swords, tsuba, and armor, a thorough examination of the various signatures, and a lot more. This book is in perfect, like new condition.
Japanese language.
KOZUKA 100 - The Claude Thuault
Collection by Ogasawara
/ Thuault (1993), $70.00
Presented in both English and
Japanese is the presentation of a western collection featuring detailed
photography and descriptions of 100 kozuka. The study is followed by an 18-page
commentary on the collection in both English and Japanese, and a three page
glossary of terms not identified within with text of
descriptions. 268 pages,
6" X 8 1/2" hardcover w/ dustjacket. 
MASAMUNE by Sano Bijutsukan NA
Another winner from the Sano Museum, this time the focus is on the legendary Masamune and his school. Again, first rate and definitive. As close to a Masamune as one is likely to get without going to Japan. .
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.
NIHON-no-BIJUTSU,
$60.00 each
Volume 6, 'TO-KEN' Japanese swords by Sato Kanzan.
In very good condition, 7 1/4in X 9in, 134 pages, published in
Oct.1966.
Volume 64,
'TOSOGU' Sword Fittings by Kajima Susumu. In very good condition, 7 1/8in X 8
7/8in, 108 pages, published in Sept.1971.
Volume 70, 'LACQUER WARE' Kamakura Style Sculpture
by Goke Tadaomi. In excellent condition, 7 1/4in X 8 7/8in, 110 pages, published
in March 1972.
Volume 127,
'BINGATA' (Kimono) Okinawan Traditional Dyed Cloth by Yamanobe Tomoyuki. In very
good condition, 7 1/4in X 9in, 94 pages, published in Dec.1976.
Volume 332, 'NIHONTO
no BI' The Workmanship of Japanese Swords by Ogasawara
Nobuo. NEW, 7 1/4in X
9in, 98 pages, published in Jan.1994.
Volume 431, 'NIHONTO' Japanese Sword, The Fujisawa
Otoyasu Collection by Hiroi Yuichi. NEW, 7 1/4in X 9in, 106 pages published in April
2002.
All volumes are
published under the supervision of the National Museums of
NIHON KOTO SHI by Dr. Homma Junji NA
A study of Koto swords by the leading authority of the 20th century, Dr. Homma Junji. With photos, oshigata, and text. A great reference. Good condition, with slip cover.
NIHON MEITO ZUKAN by
Sato Kanzan, Out-of-print NA
Printed 1500 only. This contains Kokuho and Juyo level swords in detial and the history of Nihonto, their features, swordmaking and Shogun's blades are explained together. Full list of Kokuho and Juyo Bunkazai blades are listed also. Written by Sato Kanzan and directed by Honma Kunzan. English article about history of Japanese sword is included. Book size 26.5cm X 37cm, 304 pages.
Japanese language.
NIHON TOKO
JITEN
by FUJISHIRO Matsuo & Yoshio (r.1964) Two KOTO/SHINTO sets $400.00 each set.
The classic Japanese-language sword reference. This
reference set includes detailed oshigata and information of the most important
smiths of the Koto and Shinto periods. Fujishiro lists only the better swordsmiths of each era; thus any rating by Fujishiro is considered very good. The Fujishiro books also show documented signatures (mei) of many of the swordsmiths listed, thus the books are widely used to
compare swordsmith signatures (mei) for the purpose of authentication. Long considered
essential texts, Fujishiro's rankings are a common reference of collectors and
scholars alike, and serves as one of the key texts cited in Hawley's Japanese
Swordsmiths. English language index included. Each two volume set: KOTO and
SHINTO 6 1/4" x 8 3/4" hardcover volumes with fair slipcases.
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.
NIHONTO KANSHO no
SHIORI from Sano Art Museum, $50.00
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.
NIHONTO KANTEI HOU
by Honami Mitsuhiro. 1973 NA (out of
print)
Rare complete two volumes (volume 1 is 432 pages,
volume 2 is381 pages) with beautiful silk covers. These volumes devoted to
explaining how to appraise Nihonto and the secret bequeathed to the famous
Honami family. Large size 19cm X 27cm
NIHONTO no KANTEI to KANSHO by Tsuneishi Hideaki, $50.00
Great set with Hideaki's Nihonto no Kenkyu to Kansho (below). 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.
NIHONTO no KENKYU to
KANSHO by Tsuneishi Hideaki. NA (out of
print)
These two books are for the professional Nihonto
collectors. The contents are Japanese descriptions, not an oshigata book. From
Koto to Gendaito, smiths' rankings, history, characteristics and their values
are included. Koto volume 488 pages, Shinto volume 433 pages. 14cm X 20cm,
luxurious silk hardcovers, excellent condition. 
NIHONTO no KENKYU to
KANSHO by Tsuneishi Hideaki. $120.00 (out of
print)
This KOTO volume is for the professional Nihonto
collector. The contents are Japanese descriptions, not an oshigata book. Koto
smiths' rankings, history, characteristics and their value are included. In
excellant condition, 488 pages, 5 3/8" x 7 3/8" luxurious silk hardcover w/
clear sleeve. 
NIHONTO KYO no MEISO by Sano Bijutsukan. $100.00 (out of print)
English title is NIHONTO: THE RISE and PROSPERITY of MASTERFUL RAI SCHOOL in KYOTO. This is the study on the famous Rai school from Yamashiro. The Sano Museum has set the standard with their first rate exhibits, catalogs, and scholarship. You will not find a more comprehensive treatise on the Rai school; the photos and oshigata are as good as it gets. There is no better reference or study materials available on the Rai school.
NIHONTO MEIKAN by Honma Kunzan & Ishi Masakuni , NA
This is the Bible of Nihonto collectors. This is the most complete listing of swordmakers available and a must for all collectors. About 23,000 smiths' history, their signature styles, smith's chronology, smith's origin, family history, change of mei, etc. are totally well organized. Original box included, Excellant condition.
NIHONTO NYUMON
SERIES by Shibata Mitsuo. NA Complete Set of Three
(out of print)
Nihonto Nyumon is a good reference book for
Japanese swordsmiths. It contains lots of information such as Token price from
Koto to Gendaito for numerous smiths, their oshigatas, and how to judge Gimei,
how to buy good blades, etc. Throughout this book, the author is displaying his
vast knowledge. 300 pages.
Tsuba Nyumon is for tsuba collectors. It
contains more than 100 famous Kinko and their tsuba photos with their
characteristics. Also, it contains the profiles of certain Kinko and their
values. 208 pages.
Toso Nyumon is a rare book which dealt with
Koshirae, Kozuka, Fuchi/Kashira, Menuki, Kogai, habaki, and some tsuba. B/W
photos of Kodogu are fully illustrated. This book also contains remarkable
Kodogu and the price list of Kodogu with a list of famous Kinko. 192
pages.
NIHONTO: SWORDS OF
JAPAN, A VISUAL GLOSSARY by Kotoken Kajihara. 1989 $800.00 (out of print)
Also titled - Zukan: Nihonto
Yogo Jiten
An encyclopedia of the Japanese sword and its mountings. The book
is entirely comprehensive and is essential reference for sword and tosogu
collectors. Profusely illustrated and accompanied by an English translation.
Both in excellant condition, main volume is 550 pages, companion volume is 153
pages plus 52 pages of index, in English and refers page by page to the main
volume with expanded English explanations or definitions. Both are approx. 10" x
13" inches, Hardcovers with slipcases.
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.
NIHONTO ZUIKAN by
Kataoka Kinsaku, NA
These two books are written by Hizento expert
Kataoka Kinsaku. The quality of the oshigata and its accuracy exceeds that of
Iimura's Taikan Series. Hundreds of oshigata and swordsmith are clearly
illustrated here. Especially, the Koto volume is one of the rarest books even in
Japan. These books divided the swordsmiths following their province like Shinto
Shu and Shinshinto Shu by Fujishiro Yoshio. Also, they indicated some errors
that appeared in Fujishiro's Toko Jiten. These two books are the most accurate
and reliable books ever published for Nihonto Oshigata. Koto volume has 1064
pages and printed in 1982. Shinto volume (including Shinshinto and Gendaito) has
991 pages and printed in 1977. Book size is 22.5cm X 30.5cm, each with original
slipcase. Books are hard silk cover in nearly mint condition without any damage.
Japanese language with English indexes included.
This out-of-print book is the first English language
reference written by a 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 the
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. In very good condition with dust jacket, 222
pages, 7 1/2in X 10 1/2in.
ONE HUNDRED
MASTERPIECES From The COLLECTION Of DR. WALTER A. COMPTON Japanese Swords,
Sword-Fittings, and Accoutrements edited by Izzard, Sebastian, New York, 1992.
$100.00
This beautifully produced book describes and
illustrates the finest sword collection outside of Japan, a collection that no
one ever thought would be sold at auction. Includes essays on Dr. Compton's life
and connoisseurship. Shows forty-two swords and fifty-eight other pieces
including tsuba. Each piece in the catalog has a brief description in kanji and
a comprehensive one in English, describing the piece in detail and giving a
biography of the maker. Those of the blades are by Martin Lorber, and of the
fittings by Robert E. Haynes, who is recognized as the leading authority on
fittings outside of Japan. 10" x 14 1/2", 321 pp., 55 color and numerous b/w
illustrations, text in English with Japanese captions, glossary, bibliography,
New with New hardbound cover. 
Three Book Set by GARY MURTHA, Only Sold As A Set for $300.00
The SAMURAI
SWORD
An American Perspective by Gary Murtha, (1980) $150.00
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.
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.
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.
The SAMURAI
SWORD
A Handbook by John
M. Yumoto, sixth printing (1968) $20.00
This volume is a
first of its kind in English and is a complete handbook of the samurai sword.
The informative text deals with the origins and development of the sword, its
historical background, the various types of swords, their parts, styles, and
differences in construction, the art of the swordsmith, the famous schools, the
problem of identification and evaluation, and the care and maintenance of the
sword. The numerous illustrations admirably augment the text.. 191 pages, 6" x 8
1/2" hardcover w/ dustjacket.
SENGOKU BUSHIYO to
MEITO by Yokota Takao. $150.00 (1994 out of
print)
This book shows the great Nihonto which was carried
by the great Samurai from Heian Era to Edo Era. It also shows the change and
tradition of each era with good examples to enlighten your eyes on Nihonto. Also
contains important history and relics of the Samurai together. There are many
Juyo Bunkazai level blades are listed. 196 pages, 18.5cm X 26cm
SHINHAN TOSHO ZENSHU by Shimizu Osamu, NA
This book is a complement to Nihonto Meikan. It was first
published in 1957 by a 
SHOSANKENSHU Henri Joly's List
of Names and Kakihan by Henri Joly, (1985) In
Use
The reprint of Joly's 1919 handwritten/drawn
reference to fittings makers' names and personal seals. Over 2950 listings are
recorded. Listings are alphabetized by romanized spelling, each includes: kanji,
and in most cases kakihan and notations regarding location or school. The
previous text to which Joly credits as the basis for supplementation was by
Shinkichi Hara and contained only 600 entries minus kakihan. This is a
definitive and invaluable reference tool by a noted authority. 444 pages, 9 1/4"
x 11 1/2" hardcover with dust jacket. 
SOSOKI no NIHONTO by
Sano Bijutsukan, NA
The exhibit catalog from the Sano's exhibit on the development of the Japanese sword. There is nothing else available which so completely illustrates the changes in the Japanese sword from the earliest blades of the Nara period forward. Many ancient blades illustrated that are not found elsewhere. First rate photos and oshigata. 
SUNENZU SANSHU TOKO no KENKYU by
Shizuoka Branch of NBTHK, (1976) NA
Yoshisuke was the founder of Sunshu Shimada school
in Kamakura era at Suruga province. After then, many famous smiths were born
including Yoshisuke line, Hirosuke, Sukemune, etc. This large book could be
called Suruga To Taikan as it covers all Yoshisuke line from Koto to Shinshinto
and other Suruga, Enshu, Izu, Totomi, Dushu, and Sunshu smiths. Quality can be
comparable to Iimura's Taikan series. Printed in 1976 with about 400 pages,
containing many full size oshigata, 22.5cm X 31.5cm, silk hardcover with
original case. Limited edition.
TANOSHIMU NIHONTO by Kanzan. $40.00 (1972)
This is one of the best books and much loved by Japanese since published. It contains the value of blades such as Mumei, Wakizashi, and others. Every chapter is written by the famous professionals such as Iida Kazuo, Tokuno Kazuo, Fukunaga Suiken, etc. It tells about the various knowledge and what you have to see when you purchase Nihon-to. The cover of the book is the assembly of the oshigata. Japanese language. In excellant condition, 222 pages, 6" x 8 1/2" hardcover w/dustjacket and clear sleeve 
TEIRYO
YOJI by Honami Koson, Trans. and Edited by A.Yamanaka &
D.Scott (1984) NA
The Honami's long and respected tradition as sword
polishers is renown. Reportedly not intended for mass distribution, Honami Koson
originally prepared Teiryo Yoji for his students as the proper restoration of
nihonto requires subtle knowledge of kantei and supporting key qualities in a
blade to bare its distinction. This serious kantei tool includes over 800 sword
drawings classified by period, each accompanied by detailed commentary. While
not actual swords, representations are intended to typify kantei points normally
attributed to a given smith's work. Understanding these points is essential when
evaluating swords. Essential & invaluable for the serious student. English
and Japanese text. Printing in limited edition of only 300 volumes. In excellant
condition, 438 pages, 9 1/4 x 12 1/4" hardcover, boxed
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.
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.
TOKEN KANTEI DOKUHON
[A Guide to Evaluating Japanese Swords] by Kokan Nagayama. $50.00 (1979)
The author Kokan Nagayama is a noted appraiser and
polisher of Japanese swords. This book is illustrated by Kokan himself, and is
widely used as a study tool for many study groups and appraisal meetings.
Following an in-depth consideration of the history of the sword in Japan, the
five traditions of workmanship and some outstanding Edo period examples,
Nagayama's guide to sword appreciation expands on criteria to judge sword
quality, identify flaws, and ultimately make a correct attribution. This
ambitious guide includes an index and is supported by numerous b&w
illustrations throughout. Japanese Text: In excellant condition, 383 pages, 5
1/4" x 7 3/4" cloth cover w/ slipcase 
The above book is the Japanese language version of "THE
CONNOISSEUR'S BOOK OF JAPANESE SWORDS" by Kokan Nagayama, translated by Kenji
Mishina. 256 pages, 7 1/2" x 10 1/8" hardcover. $90.00
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.
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.
TOKO SHINSEN by
Fujishiro Yoshio. $220.00 (out of print)
A rare book written
by Fujishiro Yoshio who wrote the famous Nihon Toko Jiten (see above). This book
was published in prewar 1939. It contains 250 famous swordsmith profiles with
their clean oshigata and market values, classified as Katana, Wakizashi, and
Tanto respectively. 1 smith, 1 page format, quite easy to follow. In good
condition. 
TOKO SORAN by Noburo
Kawaguchi. $80.00 (1963)
This book was the cornerstone
of Nihonto Meikan. First published in 1913 and revised continuously. This book
is published in 1963 and now out-of-print. Also listed in Hawley's reference as
very accurate reference. It contains about 13000 smith names and their signature
styles. This is not oshigata book but it's a great set with Zuhan Tomei Soran.
They followed the same format. Portable pocket size, in excellant condition, 748
pages, 4 1/2" x 6" hardcover w/ slipcase 
YUMEI Koto Taikan /
Shinto Taikan / Shinshinto Taikan by Iimura Yoshiaki. $2500.00 (out of print)
These books are the most
well-known and masterpieces of Iimura Yoshiaki. They are coveted by serious
Nihonto collectors. All volumes contain quite clear oshigatas of hundreds of
smiths, kodogu, toso, etc. They are self-explanatory.
The Koto volume is 840
pages, Shinto volumes have 917 pages (vol.1) and 732 pages (vol.2), and
Shinshinto volumes have 761 pages (vol.1) and 494 pages (vol.2).
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.
If you have any questions or wish
to purchase any book, please contact me at E-mail.