Japan, Imperial. A Late Nineteenth Century Sword

 A sword, c. 1875, featuring a steel blade measuring 48.0 cm in length, set into a wood handle with brass fittings, the total length measures 64.2 cm. A small hand etched squirrel is present on the ricasso, the blade is sharp with small areas of discolouration and contact. The handle is black stained wooden, slightly squared and thinner near the pommel, measures 160 mm, and shows wear due to use and age. The blade is contained in a metal magnetic scabbard covered in a black coating, exhibiting an integral ring and suspension loop on one side near the throat, the scabbard measures 50.0 cm, and bears a great deal of contact and wear.