Signed: Tateyoribetsu-jū Zuiunshi Taira Yoshisada (建依別住瑞雲子平善貞) with kao
Blade Length: 67.2 cm
Curvature: 1.2 cmYoshisada, born Yamamura Shigematsu in 1900, was a highly regarded swordsmith from Kochi Prefecture. He studied under the master Kawashima Tadazane of Unshū and later became an Army appointed swordsmith (Rikugun Jumei Tōshō) during WWII. He received major awards, including a gold medal at the Nihon Tōshō Kyōkai Exhibition (1943) and the Chairman’s Prize at the Army Sword Exhibition the same year, and continued to win numerous awards in postwar competitions.
The blade shows a well-forged itame hada, with a visible grain structure, and a suguha-based hamon with gentle undulation, combining stability with subtle activity. The overall sugata is balanced and practical, reflecting the workmanship of a skilled modern smith.
The sword is mounted in an excellent condition Imperial Japanese Navy officer Kaigunto mounts.
