Sa Ichimon
Unsigned attributed to the Sa School
1350s Nanbokucho period
NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Token
28 7/16’ Cutting edge
Shirasaya
Swords from the famous Sa school during the 1300s resemble the works of the main Soshu school, the best in my opinion. Sa himself had wonderful Soshu blades that resembled both Masamune and Sadamune. The term “Sue Sa” was used by the NBTHK when they couldn't discern between the Sa students when evaluating a blade. Some works are so close, it is almost impossible to tell the difference. Since all of the first tier students are all of very high quality, this is not a derogatory attribution. The blades speak for themselves such as this example. The first thing one should notice is the strong shape of this blade. Also, blades with such well cut double grooves are never low classed blades, in fact Sadamune is very famous for his Niju hi (or double grooves). The hamon is soshu den all the way with asai notare with gunome. Excellent activity within the hamon makes us think of Masamune. The kinsuji is outstanding. Ji nie is abundant and the healthiness of this blade is fantastic. The boshi is almost kaen and is full of nie. The tang is osuriage and bears an interesting inscription attesting to the blades sharpness.
"Ōkami Ason Akiyoshi, descendent of the Imo-Daimyōjin of Kōchi in the 24th generation. This blade has been tested and its cutting ability is unparalleled, hence it shall be treasured in perpetuity." -Written on the tang.
A great choice if you want a blade of history and quality.
