Japanese Edo Era Naginata Blade Signed “Harunobuyoshi” 16"

Antique Japanese Naginata Signed “Harunobuyoshi” (原信吉)
Japan, Edo period (17th–18th century)

This Japanese Naginata is signed with the mei Harunobuyoshi (原信吉). While the characters are legible, the exact smith is not represented in standard swordsmith directories. The second and third characters, 信吉 (Nobuyoshi), are well-documented in swordmaking history, associated with multiple smiths including Shinano-no-kami Nobuyoshi, an established Edo-period maker of quality blades. The additional 原 (Hara/Gen/Haru) may indicate a regional variant, a lesser-known branch smith, or a unique personal inscription.

The blade measures approximately 16–18 inches, with a refined kissaki and a hamon visible along the length. Its surface polish reveals forging activity and a lively steel structure, though areas of wear, scratches, and oxidation are present from centuries of age. The nakago shows deep patina consistent with Edo-era manufacture, and the mei remains clear despite surface rusting.

The blade is housed in a shirasaya (plain wood scabbard), the standard preservation mount for Japanese blades, with a copper habaki fitted at the base. This emphasizes the blade itself as the object of study and appreciation rather than decorative koshirae.

Condition: The blade shows scratches, oxidation, and age wear but retains integrity and a visible hamon. The tang is patinated with a legible signature. The shirasaya and habaki are in good condition, providing proper housing for preservation.

For collectors, this Naginata represents a signed Edo-period blade with intriguing research potential. The mei “Harunobuyoshi” may reflect a minor smith or unrecorded lineage connected to the broader tradition of Nobuyoshi. Submission for NBTHK shinsa could provide authoritative confirmation of its place within sword history.

Details

• Origin: Japan

• Period: Edo (17th–18th century)

• Medium: Forged steel blade; copper habaki; wood shirasaya

• Blade length: approx. 16–18 in.

• Signature: Mei “原信吉” (Harunobuyoshi), possibly related to Nobuyoshi lineage

• Condition: Blade polished with scratches and oxidation; tang patinated with visible mei; shirasaya intact and well-fitted

• Provenance: Collection of Len Sorese

LS111