Katana Signed Ikkansai Yoshihiro (一貫斎義弘)
Dated August 1819 (Bunsei 2)
This katana is signed Ikkansai Yoshihiro (一貫斎義弘) and dated August of Bunsei 2 (1819), placing its manufacture in the late Edo period. Yoshihiro worked during a period when swordsmiths pursued both refined artistry and exceptional forging techniques, producing blades that balanced elegance with practical performance.
Measuring 65.8 cm in length with a graceful curvature of 1.6 cm, the blade exhibits a refined suguha with gentle undulations. The nioi-guchi is bright and clearly defined, demonstrating careful heat treatment and skilled workmanship. Its clean temper line and harmonious proportions embody the restrained sophistication characteristic of high-quality Edo-period swords.
The sword is further complemented by an elegant koshirae fitted with gold-zōgan metal fittings, adding both artistic richness and historical appeal. The combination of a precisely dated blade and finely decorated mountings makes this an especially attractive example of late Edo craftsmanship.