oshigata.nl
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detailed drawings of Japanese swords
Koshirae restoration and tsukamaki

Welcome to the Oshigata.nl website.

Oshigata are accurate drawings done to reproduce the smith's signature engraved on the nakago (the tang) if it is present, the Hamon (temper line), and other fine and subtle characteristics on the surface of the sword. An accurately drawn Oshigata helps the classification of a sword to a smith or school, it also is the unique "fingerprint" of each sword, a snapshot taken of its appearance at this moment. With a carefully done oshigata drawing a lot more detail can be seen in the sword than is possible with a photograph.

On this page is a selection of oshigata examples to show styles of different hamon treatment, and full-size oshigata examples of swords.
Please click on the image to view a larger version and get more information.

I also offer a service in sword koshirae (fittings and scabbard) restoration. Please see the restoration page for details.

Restoration and Tsukamaki pages >


Oshigata examples

  • mainly gunome notare
hamon1

Oshigata examples

  • mainly choji midare
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Oshigata examples

  • mixed hamon
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SEE MORE HAMON EXAMPLES

Oshigata example

  • Katana
  • Kaifu school
kaifu katana

Oshigata example

  • Wakizashi
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Oshigata example

  • Katana
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Oshigata example

  • Katana
  • Ishido school
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SEE MORE OSHIGATA EXAMPLES


Sword koshirae restoration and tsukamaki

Over the years I have restored the koshirae (fittings and scabbards) for several swords, using techniques and materials as close to the traditional as I could manage. It has been my privilege to restore these pieces, returning to them the allure and status they must once have possessed.

Some koshirae have been built entirely from scratch, using original elements such as fuchi and kashira, menuki and tsuba etc. I have also re-wrapped the tsukamaki (lace binding) on some of the the tsukas. I do not do polishing or sharpening work on blades.

JAPANESE SWORD RESTORATION