Ko-Bizen Kanehira is famous for the sword O-Kanehira (Ikeda Family heirloom, designated a national treasure). This rare piece by Kanehira features a signature that includes the place name. Its overall shape is in the style of the late Heian period, with the moderately prominent wood grain texture of the jigane, the minutely wavy tempered pattern of the hamon, and the kinsuji (broad, light-colored nie line) within the ha (blade), coming together in a sword that appears classically graceful, yet mighty.
