Q820. Wakizashi signed Omi Daijo Fujiwara Tadahiro.

Nagasa:  19 1/16″ 48.2 cm.

Sori:  1.12 cm.

Moto haba:  2.9 cm.

Moto kasane:  .6 cm.

Saki haba:  1.9 cm.

Saki kasane:  .4 cm.

Nakago nagasa:  5 1/2″ 10.4 cm.

Overall in shirasaya:  28 5/8″ 77.8 cm.

Omi Daijo Tadahiro was the 1st son and heir of 1st generation Hizen Tadayoshi/Tadahiro. He was born in 1523, attained his title in 1641, and died in 1693. He is rated Jojosaku in Fujishiro. He was important.

This wakizashi comes with a paper, dated 1996, by Tokuno Kazuo, a prolific author of Nihonto books and a recognized authority on the subject. There is a translation of the paper; here is what Mr. Tokuno has to say about this sword.

“Shinogi zukuri, iore mune, middle size kissaki. Fine itame hada with emerging ji-nie, called Konuka hada. Small nie based suguba temper, deep nie and nioi, kinsugi seen. Signed in original nakago. Evaluation and comment: All the characteristics including temper line indicates typical 2nd generation Tadahiro and shows good workmanship.”

There is horimono on both sides: some manner of Buddhist symbolism, I believe. The sword is flawless, in high quality polish, and mounted with a solid silver habaki in very well made shirasaya. This is a fine example of Nidai Hizen Tadahiro’s work; one you should be proud to own. 2 pounds. $4,750.