伊達政宗

Date Masamune, the lord of Ōshū, was a Sengoku-era daimyō renowned for his deep appreciation of Japanese swords. Despite losing his right eye in childhood, he earned the epithet 'One-Eyed Dragon' and became one of the most powerful lords in Japan. Masamune was a passionate sword collector; among his prized possessions was Shokudaikiri Mitsutada, a masterwork by the celebrated Bizen Osafune smith Mitsutada. The sword earned its name when Masamune struck down a retainer and the blade cut clean through a nearby candlestick. He also possessed the famous ōdachi Ōkurikara, a treasured heirloom of the Date clan. Masamune actively patronized swordsmiths in his domain, nurturing craftsmen such as Kunikane and fostering a vibrant sword culture in the Sendai domain. His aesthetic sensibility extended to sword fittings — Date-clan koshirae are celebrated for their splendid yet refined designs. The word 'date-mono' (stylish person) traces its origins to the flamboyant spirit of the Date clan, a spirit vividly reflected in their swords. DATEKATANA takes its name in tribute to Masamune's fusion of martial prowess and artistic vision.