Product Description

Drawing on the Victoria and Albert Museum's magnificent collection, one of the finest in the West, this illustrated survey examines the development of the Japanese sword in an historical and social context from the eighth to the twentieth century. The development of the sword from its origins as one of the world's most effective cutting weapons is seen in the context of the emergence and development of Japan's ruling military class, the samurai, to whom it was indispensable both as a weapon and symbol of power. The book also deals concisely with the techniques used in the making of the Japanese sword and the associated terminology. In addition to weapons from the V&A's own collections and unusual prints showing graphic depictions of swords in action, illustrations include comparative material from other museums such as Japan's Tokyo National Museum which has one of the best and most well documented collections of Japanese swords in the world.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #990823 in Books
• Published on: 2000-09
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 128 pages

Customer Reviews

A captivating book, a must for all sword fans and smithys
The book shows an indepth history, science and evolution of the japanese sword with stunning art work depicting samurai in battle and the gentle mystical smithies in action. Blade design including shape, structure, physical properties and appearance are all carefully explained in a manor that is both understandable yet maintains and aura of mystery surrounding the magnificent and revered blades. A must for all sword fans and smithys.

A great book to start into the world of Samurai Swords
I loved this book, it gives plenty of information for anybody interested in Samurai swords, It traces the weapons history and its symbolism, a good read!