Antique Japanese Wakizashi, Signed "Hizen-koku Tadayoshi" (肥前國忠吉) — NBTHK Hozon Tōken, by the 8th-Generation Tadayoshi, One of the "Four Pillars" of the Hizen School

A beautifully dense, velvety konuka-hada jigane and a bright, vibrant ko-gunome hamon, by a master whose finest work is often mistaken for that of the founding 1st- and 3rd-generation Tadayoshi

We are pleased to present a prestigious wakizashi by the 8th-generation Tadayoshi (八代忠吉) of Hizen Province, formally certified as Hozon Tōken (Preservation Sword) by the NBTHK (Nihon Bijutsu Tōken Hozon Kyōkai). Exceptionally well polished and preserved in pristine health, this blade embodies the absolute essence of classic Hizen metallurgy. Ranked alongside the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd generations as one of the "Four Pillars" of the Tadayoshi lineage, the 8th generation produced masterpieces so refined they are frequently compared to those of the founding masters.

On the smith — 8th-Generation Hizen Tadayoshi (八代忠吉)

The Tadayoshi lineage served as the exclusive, official swordsmiths to the powerful Nabeshima clan of the Saga domain across nine generations. Among them, the 8th-generation Tadayoshi holds a uniquely revered status. Active during the Bakumatsu (late Edo) period, he played a crucial role in the technological modernization of the Saga domain, working on the manufacture of cannons and warships alongside his swordsmithing duties.

Deeply trusted by the domain lord, he was frequently invited to perform live sword-forging demonstrations in the lord's presence. Considered one of the "Four Pillars" of the Hizen school — alongside the 1st generation, the 2nd generation (Ōmi Daijō), and the 3rd generation (Mutsu-no-kami) — his craftsmanship was so exceptionally honed that his finest works are often mistaken for those of the legendary 1st- or 3rd-generation Tadayoshi.

Workmanship and condition

Carefully polished and in superior condition, both the ji (surface steel) and ha (temper line) display outstanding health. The jigane features the signature konuka-hada (fine rice-bran grain) typical of the highest-quality Hizen swords, presenting a beautifully dense, uniform, and velvety surface texture. The hamon is a bright and vibrant ko-gunome (small irregular clove-shaped pattern) set within a wide, clear nioiguchi, enriched with active internal workings such as ashi and yō.

Form

A beautifully proportioned shinogi-zukuri wakizashi featuring a graceful sori (curvature) of 1.2 cm paired with an ample nagasa (edge length) of 45.9 cm. With a strong motohaba (33.6 mm) tapering gracefully to a sakihaba of 21.8 mm, the blade exhibits an elegant, balanced posture with an undeniable commanding presence in hand.

The mounting (shirasaya)

The blade is safely housed in a clean, high-grade traditional shirasaya (plain wood resting scabbard), safeguarding the pristine steel and fine polish for long-term appreciation and display.

A rare and remarkable opportunity to acquire an authenticated masterpiece by the legendary 8th-generation Hizen Tadayoshi. Featuring exquisite konuka-hada, a vibrant hamon, and official NBTHK Hozon certification, this piece is an exceptional centerpiece for any fine Japanese sword collection.

Specifications

• Type: Wakizashi (脇差), shinogi-zukuri with iori-mune; ubu, zaimei (signed); Shinshintō era (late Edo period, Bakumatsu)
• Smith: 8th-generation Tadayoshi (八代忠吉), Hizen Province; one of the "Four Pillars" of the Hizen school
• Signature (mei): "Hizen-koku Tadayoshi" (肥前國忠吉)
• Jigane: Classic Hizen konuka-hada (fine rice-bran grain)
• Hamon: Bright, clear ko-gunome in a wide nioiguchi, with active ashi and yō
• Length of edge (nagasa): 45.9 cm (approx. 18.07 in / approx. 1 shaku 5 sun 2 bu)
• Curvature (sori): 1.2 cm (approx. 0.47 in)
• Width at base (motohaba): 30.6 mm (approx. 1.20 in)
• Thickness at base (motokasane): 6.0 mm (approx. 0.24 in)
• Width at tip (sakihaba): 21.8 mm (approx. 0.86 in)
• Thickness at tip (sakikasane): 5.3 mm (approx. 0.21 in)
• Peg holes (mekugi-ana): 1
• Weight (blade only): 460 g
• Condition: Excellent; freshly polished, very sound ji and ha
• Mounting: Shirasaya
• Certification: NBTHK Hozon Tōken
• Registration No.: Saga No. 2728 (佐賀 第2728号)