Wakizashi - help and opinion needed

[Valjhun]

Hi,

I'm about to obtain that wak. What do you think? It seems a Satsuma rebellion piece to me.

Can anybody translate the signature?

[Maskell]

The signature reads "SESSHU OSAKA JU YOSHISHIGE" Meaning smiths name Yoshishige a resident of Osaka in Settsu province. I've found him listed in the old Hawley's book as active in 1661, he also used the name "Kunikore" That type of hilt wrappings are the style associated with the Satsuma rebellion but don't know how factual that is.

Best,
Maskell

[Valjhun]

Thank you Maskell.

Any other opinion?

[Rich]

I would agree with Maskell's translation and possibility that the style
of tsuka ito is commonly associated with Satsuma rebellion swords.

Rich S
The Japanese Sword Index
http://www.geocities.com/alchemyst/nihonto.htm