Shinshinto Gassan Katana with Horimono with NBTHK Green Papers

Signature: SetsuyoJu Gassan Sadayoshi tsukuru.  
Year Made: 1830-1860
Forging Pattern: Ko-Itame
Tempering Pattern: Suguha with Niedeki and fine activity above the hamon
Dimensions:  Blade Length:  28 7/8", Nakago: 9.5", Mihaba: 1 3/8", Sakihaba: 7/8", Kasane: 5/16", Sori: 1/2", Kissaki: 2 3/8" 
Condition:  This blade is in excellent condition, bright fresh polish.  Gassan Sadayoshi (1800-1870) is the Osaka Gassan school founder, one of the most popular Shin-Shinto schools, and he was known for his fine horimono.  The horimono of the dragon is superb! and is in excellent condition with only the very slightest of loss from polishing. The Niedeki is quite attractive and strong.  This is a very health blade, pleasing to hold and examine.  There are two shirasaya, one older with a sayagaki (first four pictures) and the second (next two pictures) is very fresh and well made.  The shirasaya with the sayagaki is splitting along the seems.  The wood is repairable.  The habaki is a one piece gold foil.