Fukutsugu
A Master of the Modern Sword Tradition and Holder of Intangible Cultural Heritage
Fukutsugu （福津久） Yanagida is not only a master swordsmith but also a key figure in the preservation and authentication of Japan’s sword heritage. His unique ability to blend artistic excellence with traditional craftsmanship, along with his deep knowledge of historical texts and unrivaled skill as a sword appraiser, makes him an invaluable asset to the world of Japanese swordsmanship. His legacy will continue to influence both the art of swordmaking and the understanding of Japan’s sword history for many years to come.
清麿写し
長巻直し造大切先長寸刀
A monumental replica of the famous 'Kiyomaro',
featuring a long blade with a tapered point and a curved shape.
Professionally Polished.
Mounted in a custom Iaito style with leather-wrapped handle.
As a swordsmith, my essential task is to direct my intent into the blade, channeling my energy into the creation of each sword. This is the core of my work, my spirit, and my purpose.
In the process of forging a sword, approximately 800 bales of red pine charcoal are used as fuel to reduce the iron sand into raw material. The resulting Tamahagane (Japanese steel) is then carefully heated to 1300 degrees Celsius, using a combination of visual, auditory, and sensory judgment, deeply engaging all five senses.
The key to shaping the Tamahagane lies not only in meticulous technique but in the “energy of intention”—the ability to focus one's will with phrases like “heat!” and “bind!” It is through entering a state of “emptiness” that a swordsmith can truly imbue their creation with the spirit of the work.
The process of crafting a single blade takes approximately 90 days. Over the course of 25 years as a swordsmith, I have crafted around 600 swords, of which about 75 remain in the world today. From this, it can be said that a remarkable and exceptional piece is produced roughly once every five years.
A master sword is defined by its resilience, sharpness, and lightness—qualities that ensure it does not break, bend, or dull. However, a true masterpiece must also embody spiritual and aesthetic elements, which are essential to understanding the unique beauty of the Japanese sword. The beauty of the Japanese sword encompasses elements that are beyond the measurable and the material.
A Master of Modern Japanese Sword-making and a Renowned Expert in Historical Sword Authentication
Fukutsugu Yanagida is widely regarded as one of the finest swordsmiths in Japan today, celebrated not only for his extraordinary craftsmanship but also for his deep respect for tradition and his ability to innovate within it. His work embodies the essence of Japanese sword-making, blending the time-honored techniques passed down through generations with his unique artistic vision and modern sensibilities.
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