The discovery of a richly-decorated 17th century Japanese wakizashi sword in Berlin, dating back to Japan's Edo period, is remarkable given Japan's long-standing isolationist policies.
Matthias Wemhoff notes the surprising nature of the find: 'Who could have imagined that at a time when Japan was isolated, such a long-used weapon had arrived in Berlin?'
Initially thought to be a Soviet parade sable, the sword was later confirmed as a wakizashi, indicative of its prominence as a status symbol reserved for dignitaries.
The sword's origins remain shrouded in mystery, yet its well-preserved state sheds light on the complexities of historical trade and cultural exchange during a period of isolation.
Collection
[
|
...
]