古備前正恒

Ko-Bizen Masatsune

Description

Ko-Bizen Masatsune is considered the foremost swordsmith of the Ko-Bizen (Old Bizen) school, active in the late Heian period (late 11th to early 12th century). He is regarded as the founding master who established the Bizen tradition, laying the groundwork for all subsequent Bizen schools including the famous Osafune school. Masatsune's blades are characterized by the refined features of Ko-Bizen work: itame-hada with a fine, nashiji-like grain, accompanied by a whitish utsuri (reflection) in the ji — the prototype of the "midare-utsuri" that became the hallmark of Bizen swords. The hamon is primarily ko-midare with an archaic, elegant quality distinct from the bold patterns of later periods. The nie is fine and evenly distributed, creating a harmonious unity between ji and ha. Several of Masatsune's works survive as National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties, including a celebrated tachi in the Tokyo National Museum. These blades, preserved in shrines such as Oyamazumi Jinja in Ehime and Kasuga Taisha in Nara, confirm his high standing among Heian and early Kamakura warriors and institutions. Masatsune's historical significance lies in his role as the progenitor of the entire Bizen tradition. By maximizing the exceptional quality of Bizen's tamahagane steel and establishing characteristic techniques of ji-hada and hamon, he created a legacy that smiths like Mitsutada, Nagamitsu, Kagemitsu, and Kanemitsu would build upon for centuries. DATEKATANA presents Masatsune as the essential starting point for understanding the depth and continuity of Bizen sword culture.

Famous Works

• 太刀（国宝、東京国立博物館）
• 太刀（重要文化財、大山祇神社）
• 太刀（重要文化財）