Japanese Wakizashi Short Sword With Papers Muromachi Period

The Japanese Wakizashi is a traditional short sword that was commonly worn by samurai alongside the longer katana. This example dates to the Muromachi Period (1336–1573), a significant era in Japanese history marked by frequent conflict and widespread sword production. The blade measures typically between 30 to 60 centimeters in length and is characterized by its curved, single-edged design. This wakizashi comes with authentication papers, indicating official appraisal and verification of its historical period and origin. Features may include a hamon (temper line), tang signature (mei), and fittings such as the tsuba (guard) and tsuka (handle), which reflect Muromachi craftsmanship. Wakizashi were traditionally used for close-quarters combat or as a backup weapon and often served as a symbol of the samurai’s social status. This piece represents a functional and ceremonial artifact from a formative period in Japanese sword history.