Aizu Shintōgo, National Treasure tantō in Fukuyama Museum of Art, Japan.
The Aizu Shintōgo is a short sword held at the Fukuyama Museum of Art, displaying precise metalwork with a balanced blade structure and traditional Japanese forging techniques. The piece demonstrates superior craftsmanship in every aspect of its construction.
This piece was created during the Kamakura period in the late 13th century and represents early developments of the Soshu tradition under master swordsmith Shintōgo Kunimitsu. That era was crucial in how Japanese smiths refined their techniques.
The blade shows how Japanese sword makers viewed their craft as both functional weapon and art form, combining military purpose with refined beauty. Walking past the display reveals the balance these craftspeople achieved between durability and elegance.
The museum maintains strict temperature and humidity controls to preserve the blade's condition while allowing visitors to examine it through protective glass. This careful storage ensures the piece remains in good condition for future generations.
The blade carries distinctive features including a particular hamon pattern with chu-suguha in ko-nie and a pronounced long kaeri that mark it as an outstanding example of period craftsmanship. These fine details reveal techniques that smiths spent years perfecting.
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