Core77

Korehira Watanabe, the Sword Maker

By Rain Noe - August 13, 2012

in Object Culture

Awesomeness. It's not just that Korehira Watanabe decided, as a college student, that he wanted to become a swordmaker, even at the cost of family disownment in a family-based society. It's not just that he dedicated 40 years of his life towards trying to recreate a type of sword whose manufacturing secrets had been lost some 400 years ago. What is most awesome to us is that Watanabe intends for his disciple to surpass him in skill, as he's adamant the tradition be passed along. He knows he may never uncover the secret of the Koto within his lifetime, but future generations might.

Enough talk. Watch:

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Anson Wong

9 years ago

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A much more in depth documentary by National Geographic. It's really good.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VE_4zHNcieM

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slippyfish

12 years ago

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@abdullah I think most of the time these kinds of swords made specifically for a certain customer who has ordered it ahead of time. Swords have measurements (called 'shaku' which is around 12") and in order to draw a sword quickly the length must correspond to the bearer's height and arm length. 'Stock' swords that have cutting edges are also made by mass-production processes but I can't imagine this swordmaker turning out more than maybe a few dozen a year...? I would estimate the bare blade with no other sword furniture (handle, guard, sheath etc) at least $2000 and probably more.
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- Austin Liu
  
  9 years ago
  
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  A complete sword from a reputable master costs $30,000-$70,000, last I heard; at that price, I suspect the bare blade would cost more than $2000.
  
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darnel

12 years ago

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respect
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Flavio Cavalheiro Roma Leao

12 years ago

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The interview ended becaus Uma Thurman was arriving for some business...
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Abdullah

12 years ago

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Do clients buy his swords, he mentioned (or gave some kind of idea) that it's tough to work as a sword-maker financially. It's an awesome job, if you ask me I hope he's making a good amount for his hard work!
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