Nakago

The Nakago: Hidden Heart of the Katana

Often concealed beneath intricate wrappings within the tsuka (hilt), the nakago is undoubtedly the least glamorous part of a Japanese sword. It's a seemingly unrefined tang of raw steel extending from the base of the blade. Yet, unseen by most, the nakago is the foundation of the katana, anchoring its power, storing its history, and offering unexpected depths of purpose and artistry. This essay will unveil the importance of the nakago: its construction, historical significance, and the wealth of information that experts can glean from its seemingly simple form.

Forging the Foundation

The nakago is an integral part of the sword-making process, meticulously forged alongside the blade:
  1. Initial Shape: During the rough forging, the swordsmith draws out a tapered tang at the base of the blade. This basic shape sets the foundation for the future nakago, determining its length and overall balance within the entire weapon.
  2. Heat Treatment: Typically, the nakago was kept from being hardened during the differential yaki-ire process. This is either achieved by coating the portion in thick clay or a specialized technique in which only the edge areas become hot enough for transformation. As such, the nakago has different properties than the blade – softer and more ductile to better absorb shocks.
  3. File Shaping: Following rough forging, the swordsmith carefully crafts the nakago with files to further refine its shape, thickness, and curvature. Precision here impacts proper handle fit and the balance of the sword.
  4. Yasurime (File Marks): Most nakago bear distinctive etchings known as yasurime. These aren't merely decorative. Unique yasurime patterns served practical purposes in better securing the tsuka, and can provide insights into the swordsmith, school, or era. Some of the styles include:
    • Kiri: Horizontal file marks.
    • Katte-sagari: Diagonal strokes in one direction.
    • Takanoha: File marks mimicking a hawk's feather.
    • O-sujikai: Large slanted strokes alternating directions.
  5. Signature (Mei): The most iconic nakago feature is the mei, the swordsmith's signature and dating information. Typically chiseled directly on the nakago's face, the mei authenticates the blade and establishes its pedigree.

Types of Nakago

Though less eye-catching than the blade itself, the nakago boasts subtle variations revealing valuable information to knowledgeable collectors:

  • Shape:
    • Kuri Jiri: Rounded nakago tip. One of the earliest and most common forms.
    • Ha Agari Kuri Jiri: Similar to Kuri Jiri but with a slightly angled cut towards the top.
    • Kengyo: Sharply angled, almost V-shaped tip.
    • Furisode: Wider towards the base, then tapered towards the tip. Resembles the long sleeve of a kimono.
  • Alterations: Historical usage can modify a nakago.
    • O-suriage: Significantly shortened from its original form, typically as a way to salvage a damaged blade. Affects blade balance and often lessens collector value.
    • Machi-okuri: The portion where the nakago meets the blade may be moved upwards during remounting of an older sword. Impacts proportions and handle fit, while revealing history.
    • Additional Signature Holes: Reputable polishers, appraisers, or noble owners occasionally added further inscription holes above the original mei.

These alterations can reveal a specific sword's unique journey through time.

Analyzing the Nakago

While a hidden feature, experts glean substantial information from close analysis of the seemingly unassuming nakago:
  • Authenticating a Blade: Foremost, a carefully assessed nakago is key to authenticating a Japanese sword. Analyzing mei (signature), yasurime (file marks), and even the steel coloration for consistency with a smith's work helps identify legitimate examples vs. potential forgeries and later imitations.
  • Swordsmith and Lineage Identification: Unique file patterns, nakago shapes, and the mei script serve as valuable clues regarding a swordsmith's technique, training, and regional practices. This is critical in tracing a blade back to its maker and historical origins.
  • Assessment of Quality: An unaltered nakago reveals much about the quality of the overall blade. Presence of forging or material flaws within the nakago suggests similar quality throughout the sword's unseen portions.
  • Age Determination: In conjunction with blade characteristics, analysis of the nakago's patina, metal oxidation, and mei style contribute to an accurate estimation of the sword's age, providing historical context.
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