In very good condition, a Gendaito Japanese Army Officer’s Shin Gunto, signed Ido Hiromitsu
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Ido Hiromitsu is / was a WW2 smith but very little is known about him; possibly a pseudonym / nom de plume for a more well known smith (possible, if this blade did not meet a superior smiths exacting standards). The irregular hamon with cloudy lining, some seeming hada, plus fokure all point to being water tempered / traditionally forged. The pierced tsuba guard and cat scratch / meteor shower habaki copper blade collar show the Imperial Japanese officer owner of the blade believed it to be very special. Probably mid war (circa late 1942 to 1943).
There are no arsenal (government / armed forces) stamps as there would be if this were a standard shin gunto; it was a private purchase by the officer.
NB: The large black areas of the blade shown in a full length photo are just a reflection of two mains plugs – the blade is in such good condition it is reflecting them.
The 26 1/4 inch nagasa (cutting edge section excluding habaki) is in very good condition, a patina looking (possibly fokure) patch one side to the point and some light scuffing elsewhere (see also the previous paragraph). The “furniture” (tsuka grip, habaki, tsuba, etc.) are in very good condition. The same (rayskin) and ito (grip binding) are aged and worn but good. The saya / scabbard is still in its combat cover; uninspected but presumed good. The sword sheathes and draws well.
A good gendaito shin gunto for an amazingly low £1800; grab it quick, this is auction (dealer / wholesale) pricing level. Please quote item reference ZU26. Further / full sized images available upon request. Box?
