Ō-Kanehira, National Treasure sword at Tokyo National Museum, Japan
Ō-Kanehira is a steel sword with a curved blade housed at the Tokyo National Museum in Taitō-ku. The surface shows fine lines and patterns created by folding and forging the metal during its making.
A blacksmith named Ō-Kanehira made this weapon around the year 1200 in Bizen Province during the late Heian period. The technique of the smith showed the skill of that generation and influenced later weapon makers in the region.
The sword belonged to Terumasa Ikeda, lord of Himeji Castle, who declared its value exceeded that of an entire country's worth.
The display case is in a climate-controlled room with low lighting to protect the old metal from damage. Visitors should take time to observe the details of the blade up close without touching the glass.
After World War Two, General MacArthur wanted to acquire this blade, but Japanese officials replied jokingly that they would only accept a trade for the Statue of Liberty. This anecdote shows how highly the country valued this work and how skillfully negotiations were handled to keep it in the country.
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