Abstract

With a rich collection of captivating photographs, the book seeks into the mystery of Japanese sword, the most powerful and beautiful weapon on the earth.

The Japanese sword is said to have the hardest blade in the world. It is a weapon as well as an art piece, sometimes admired as a sacred treasure.

The book looks back the history of Japanese sword originated in the Heian period (from 794 to 1185), seeks into the secret of astonishing features, and unveils the full process of Japanese sword-making by Kunihira Kawachi, one of the best swordsmiths of our time. Vivid photographs depict the scenes of selecting Tamahagane steel, forging, hot forming and polishing (kajioshi).

[Contents]
Episode 1: The most powerful and beautiful weapon
Episode 2: The unsolved mystery of Tamahagane steel
Episode 3: Forging steel for ultimate beauty
Episode 4: Things more important than secret techniques
Episode 5: Beyond the best
Episode 6: Facing the legacy while challenging the new era
[Appendix]: The 50 Best Japanese Swords

Author’s Information

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