Looking for any information related to this Norimitsu blade

[g2nightmare]

Hello all.

 

I recently acquired a sword (this is my first) that is signed by Bishu Osafune Norimitsu. The date is either 1446 or 1447 during the Muromachi period and has a certificate of authenticity from NBTHK.

 

I am wondering what the grade/rank of the sword is and any information regarding Bishu Osafune Norimitsu. My understanding of some research is that Bishu Osafune is the location and school and Norimitsu is the person. I however can't find which Norimitsu made this blade and what the historical significance is. Please, even any amount of information (so that I can document this blade) would be helpful to me.

 

Thank you everyone.

 

I am making a post in this subsection because I am seeking general information. I've uploaded the certificate to this thread. I originally made a translation post here, with more pictures of resources that I cannot read:

 

[Ray Singer]

Be aware that if the NBTHK themselves were not able or willing to pinpoint it to a specific Norimitsu, it's possible that you will not be able to get that level of specificity outside of the shinsa process. 

[Jussi Ekholm]

I do think it might not even be possible to know the specific smith. I have 45 signed early Muromachi Norimitsu references, out of which 36 are dated earliest is 1414 and last 1459 (I stop keeping record of dated ones after that). Out of all these only the 1459 dated Jūyō Bunkazai blade features personal name in the signature.

 

The historical significance would be that it is signed and dated sword from 1446.

[g2nightmare]

Thank you both for your responses. Does the certificate mention anything about the quality of the blade? What can you tell me about the Norimitsu smiths during this period?

[Ray Singer]

The papers are Hozon, which is the lowest of four levels that the NBTHK issues, however we do not know whether the sword has been submitted for a higher level of papers at some point. 

[Ray Singer]

And to answer your question more directly, no these type of papers do not have a discussion about the quality of the sword. That is why collectors are very appreciative of having sayagaki by Tanobe-sensei, because it gives more thoughtful insight into the blade, its quality, and other considerations about the style of workmanship.

[g2nightmare]

Thank you Ray.