Japanese swordstick

[Ron Anderson]

I have certainly posted a lot of items for identification since I got here. However, most of the mysteries in my largish collection had been more or less solved. Thanks everyone.

But here is another one.

It's a Japanese swordstick. This I know. What I'm unsure of is age, desirability, etc.

I was told it was from the 50s by the dealer, whom I believe wouldn't know one way or another, unless he received reliable information from elsewhere.

It is covered in a fairly heavy layer of lacquer. The blade too, unfortunately.

I'm unsure of the wood type. But it may be stained pine.

It is very nicely carved. Design is largely floral. And note the angry man - he really does have some very fine detail. The blade reminds me of the sort of thing you'd see in a Japanese dirk, but not of that quality clearly. And it must be added that the ferule at the bottom is exactly like shikomizui ferules.

If anyone can offer any insights, I'd appreciate your input. I may be passing this on to a friend with a greater interest in Japanese blades, but would be interested to know what people here think before I show him.

Thanks.