On the subject of sugata

[Janrudolph]

Thank you, Steve, you have voiced an optimistic opinion (very much appreciated) which I hope might prove warranted! But let's not crack open the champagne yet, haha. Following on what you and others have said, I'll post pictures below. Johan. 

[Janrudolph]

This one is just to show the hamachi. The munemachi measures 2 mm and the hamachi one-and-a-half mm. You might also see that the hamon starts very near the hamachi. Please disregard the top of the photo.

[Janrudolph]

                                                                                                                                                                                                                               These show the tang/blade transition, both sides. It could show you something?

[Janrudolph]

These are supposed to show the "islands" or whatever.

[Janrudolph]

Another one, other side.

Please also consider the pics I have already shown in this thread, posts #2 and #12 above.

[Janrudolph]

This pic shows a similar mei to mine. However, it lacks the "rai". I believe Nobuyoshi added "rai" later in his swordmaking career. I do have pictures of two papered katana with mei where "rai" is included. I have compared my blade's signature with these and, well, so what? I don't have the expertise to say they are a spitting image even if they look it!!!

 

I'll stand down now and hope you guys can make something out from these pics. Any thoughts that come up with be greatly appreciated!

Johan.

[Janrudolph]

I apologise if my pictures are not well enough chosen. I had hoped they would generate some comment... Johan