Body Cutting test

[CarsonSharps]

Is this for real??

 

  I have heard of this practice before but those sketches look sketchy.

 

https://www.ebay.com/itm/255133136583?hash=item3b671eb6c7:g:dBgAAOSwLqRgqKW4

 

 

[ChrisW]

Yes, it is for real. The sword looks to be as advertised. The diagram is a modern re-creation of an older one famously known; it details the various kinds of cuts that could be done. Often times, the sword will have what kind of cut was used inscribed on the nakago.

[CarsonSharps]

Wow super interesting.  Thanks Chris.

 

I remember seeing a very interesting video with a Russian WW2 Militaria collector doing an interview with Bill Rannow about this subject.

 

Found it:  

 

 

[ChrisW]

I've seen this video before; its an enjoyable one. However, a cutting test doesn't necessarily make a sword on the level of what you see here. It depends on a lot of factors: age, condition, smith/school, length, etc. This is true for all swords; think of a cutting test as an 'optional upgrade' like you would on a nice car. Of course, this 'upgrade' is one that is typically never done anymore and certainly not on bodies!

[CarsonSharps]

Great points Chris !

 

[Shugyosha]

Be skeptical about cutting tests. They can make a poor to average sword way more appealing than they would otherwise be. Unless the test is carried out by someone who is a member of one of the families authorised to carry out such a test and his name and seal are there, treat with caution. 

[ChrisW]

2 minutes ago, Shugyosha said:

Be skeptical about cutting tests. They can make a poor to average sword way more appealing than they would otherwise be. Unless the test is carried out by someone who is a member of one of the families authorised to carry out such a test and his name and seal are there, treat with caution. 

This is also something you should definitely consider thoroughly if you're thinking of getting a cutting test sword. Much like how sometimes bohi are added to hide/remove flaws!

[CarsonSharps]

Fascinating subject.  More good tips John!  

 

Thats what I love about this forum...you guys are super helpful and informative!!

[Shugyosha]

Worth a read: https://www.google.co.uk/amp/s/markussesko.com/2014/07/03/tameshigiri-the-history-and-development-of-Japanese-sword-testing/amp/

[PNSSHOGUN]

Yes, that book is a treasure for anyone wanting to know more about cutting tests.

[CarsonSharps]

Thank you for the book link !

[Stephen]

Those in the know Carson needs some help with looking at a cutting test sword

[Toryu2020]

I'm sure youre aware (but this is the internet...)

The inscription says "Futatsu do ochiru" which means "Cut two bodies" if it said "Ni no do" that would be the location of the cut as seen in the illustration. Since we cannot see the artists signature nor any seal or other mention of the cutter - I would not give this lots of weight in my considerations...

-t

[Ed]

[Stephen]

On your sale page Ed?

[Ed]

10 hours ago, Stephen said:

On your sale page Ed?

Stephen,

No, that shodai Kaneshige was sold a few years ago. Photos are for reference/education.

 

Ed