Tanto Dagger (unsigned, by Masamune, known as Hocho Masamune)

The Fiercest of the Three Hocho Masamune

The Tanto Dagger (unsigned, by Masamune, known as Hocho Masamune) (短刀〈無銘正宗（名物包丁正宗）〉) is an unsigned Kamakura-period tanto by Masamune, location not disclosed (private collection), which in 1952 was designated a National Treasure.

The Agency for Cultural Affairs records one blade 21.7 centimetres long with a curvature of 0.3 centimetres, 3.6 centimetres wide at the base and a tang of 9.4 centimetres, first designated under the old system in 1937.

According to the Agency, of the three Hocho Masamune listed in the Kyoho register, this is the one then owned by the Naito family of Hyuga.

The Blade

According to the Agency, it is flat-sided with a rounded back, thin, broad and short, with a slight curve. The steel is a wood grain with frequent dark lines, deep and bright, with small crystals and many golden streaks and lightning-like lines.

The point pattern is irregular, pointed on the front and rounded on the back. Ritual chopsticks are pierced through the blade, with incised hoe-shaped crests on both faces. The tang is unaltered, pointed, with sloping file marks, one peg hole and no signature.

What to Look For

The Agency describes it as the most intense of the three Hocho Masamune in its dark lines, golden streaks and lightning, typical of Masamune and sound in steel and edge.

Notice its broad, short form and the pierced ritual chopsticks.

Visiting the Tanto Dagger (unsigned, by Masamune, known as Hocho Masamune)

It is privately owned and its location is not disclosed; no official information on viewing could be found.