Katana is the Japanese sword that combines art and function into one, a weapon for warriors. Its shape is designed to facilitate fast, efficient cutting moves during combat. Its curved form also carries a spiritual meaning for samurai, who linked the swiftness of a katana strike to the immediacy of enlightenment. It is not surprising, therefore, that samurai considered their swords sacred treasures and works of art.
The katana is made of tamahagane steel, created by heating iron sand and charcoal in a clay tatara furnace. The process creates a blade that is both hard and flexible, allowing it to cut through a body of armor with ease. The katana has two blade sides—the Mune and the Shinogi—which are created by different heat treatments. The Shinogi side of the sword is quenched faster and harder than the Mune, creating a hard, sharp edge and a softer, more resilient spine.
After the forging is complete, the smith polishes the tachi to remove any blemishes or scratches and to smooth the edges of the blade. He then adds a sheath, called a saya, to protect the tachi when it is not in use. The sheath is made from untreated magnolia silasia, which protects the sword from moisture and rusting.
Because of the importance of the katana in Japan’s history, the government has recognized traditional sword smithing as an intangible cultural heritage and supports its continued practice. Modern swordsmiths continue to strive for perfection just as their ancestors did centuries ago. Manga Katana collection