Swordsmith Hiroki Hirokuni with Beautiful Koshirae Swordsmith: Hiroki Hirokuni (Junichi Hiroki) Certification: Tokubetsu Hozon Token Mukansa Era: Late Showa period Origin: Omuta City, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan Description This sword, crafted by the modern master swordsmith Hiroki Hirokuni, is a magnificent reproduction of an ancient Aoe sword from the early Kamakura period. It exemplifies the highest quality of traditional Japanese sword-making techniques and aesthetics. Specifications: Blade Length: 81.8 cm Sori (Curvature): 2.6 cm Width at Base: 32.3 mm Width at Tip: 20.2 mm Thickness at Base: 7.5 mm Thickness at Tip: 4.7 mm Weight: 768 g Features: Style: Tsuke-zukuri hermitage, with a strong and wide body, showcasing the characteristic robustness of Aoe-style swords. Horimono Carving: Intricate square clasp and bare sword cut into the surface. Jigane: Small grain skin with jiboku. Hamon: Inverted clove pattern, characteristic of Aoe swords, with leaves and golden lines in the center. Swordsmith Background Junichi Hiroki, known as Hiroki Hirokuni, was born in 1945. He initially trained under his father, Kunihiro Hiroki, and later under the Living National Treasure Swordsmith Masamine Sumiya. He specialized in Aoe-style sword making and received approval from the Cultural Affairs Agency in 1963. By 1971, he had opened his own workshop in Atsugi City, Kanagawa Prefecture. He was certified as a Mukansa swordsmith in 1996 and has actively promoted and educated the public about new swords. Significance This sword is not only a functional weapon but also a work of art and a piece of history. It represents the dedication to traditional craftsmanship and the rich heritage of Japanese sword-making. It comes with a beautiful Koshirae, making it suitable for both collection and display. Date of Manufacture: July 4, 1978 Registration Number: Kanagawa No. 62131 Inscription Front: Applicant Sanshu Kita Shitara Mitsuse Harada Buhei Junini clan branch family Harada Tosuke Kami Oyama Gimei Hirokunizo Back: Tameharada Family Shigedai Sakuno Showa Hei 1980 Dragon Year Naotake Signature (Mune): Kuniie Tencho Manminwahei Harada Main Branch This sword by Hiroki Hirokuni is a remarkable piece that embodies the spirit and skill of traditional Japanese swordsmithing, making it a valuable addition to any collection.