This Japanese wakizashi has a blade length of 18 7/16 inches (nagasa) and is mounted in full Edo-period koshirae. The tang bears a long dedicatory inscription on one side and a date reading Ansei 2nd year, 8th month (August 1855) on the other, firmly placing the sword in the late Edo Shin-Shintō period. The blade is well-forged with a clear suguha hamon and a healthy kissaki. It remains in polish with crisp lines and strong activity. The sword is accompanied by attractive Edo-period mounts: • Fuchi-kashira decorated in nanako with gilt geometric designs. • Menuki in the form of a detailed figure. • Iron tsuba with patinated surface. <b