Lot 350:
Japanese Imperial Army Kyu-Gunto Officer’s Saber
Sold for: $250
Description
A Japanese Kyu-Gunto (Old Military Sword) Army Officer’s saber, of the pattern adopted during the Meiji Restoration and used through the early Showa era. This model displays significant European influence in its form, resembling German and French officer sabers of the late 19th century. The hilt is constructed of gilded brass with a D-guard and a backstrap featuring a stippled surface decorated with raised five-petaled cherry blossom (sakura) motifs, a hallmark of the Imperial Japanese Army. The black ribbed grip, likely made of horn or celluloid, is secured with a triple-wire wrap and a single rivet. The guard concludes in a scrolled finial. The single-edged, curved blade features a prominent fuller and a visible wavy temper line (hamon) along the edge, terminating in a chu-kissaki tip. The scabbard is made of nickel-plated steel and is equipped with a single suspension ring and a standard metal drag at the chape.
Condition report:
The saber is in good condition. The hilt retains a significant portion of its original gilding, with expected thinning on raised areas and darkening within the recessed designs. The grip material and wire wrapping remain intact and secure. The blade shows a bright polish with scattered light scuffing and minor carbon spotting, while the hamon remains clearly visible. The nickel-plated scabbard exhibits light surface scratches and minor instances of oxidation and pitting consistent with its age.
Share this lot:
