Introduction

The mei (銘) and nengō (年号) are the engraved inscriptions found on the nakago (茎, tang) of a Japanese sword (nihontō, 日本刀). These inscriptions provide essential historical and identification details, allowing collectors, historians, and martial artists to trace the origins, maker, and period of a sword.

The mei (銘, signature) identifies the swordsmith, school, or province of origin, while the nengō (年号, era name) records the date when the sword was forged according to the Japanese imperial calendar. These inscriptions are among the most critical elements for authenticating and appraising a Japanese sword.

This guide explores the types, styles, and meanings of mei and nengō, along with their significance in the study of Japanese swords.

Mei (銘): The Swordsmith’s Signature

1. Purpose of the Mei

The mei serves multiple purposes:

  • Identifies the swordsmith (tosho, 刀匠) or school (den, 伝).
  • Authenticates the sword’s origin, helping collectors determine its value.
  • Indicates the location where the blade was made (province or city).
  • Occasionally honors a commissioner (e.g., a daimyo or temple).
  • Records historical details, such as special orders for famous warriors.

2. Types of Mei (銘の種類, Mei no Shurui)

Sword inscriptions vary in complexity and content, depending on the tradition and time period. Below are the most common types:

A. Tachi-Mei (太刀銘) – “Tachi Signature”

  • The signature is engraved on the tang’s outer side (omote, 表) when the blade is worn edge-down (as a tachi).
  • This style is most common on Koto-period tachi from the Heian to Muromachi periods.

B. Katana-Mei (刀銘) – “Katana Signature”

  • The signature is engraved on the opposite side of the tang (ura, 裏) compared to tachi-mei, as the blade is worn edge-up.
  • Common in Muromachi, Edo, and later katana-style swords.

C. Nijimei (二字銘) – “Two-Character Signature”

  • A short mei consisting of only two kanji characters, usually the swordsmith’s name.
  • Example: 正宗 (Masamune) or 兼光 (Kanemitsu)

D. Nagamei (長銘) – “Long Signature”

  • A full-length inscription that includes the swordsmith’s name, province, date, and sometimes a dedication.
  • Typically found on important swords made by master smiths.

E. Gimei (偽銘) – “False Signature”

  • A forged signature, often added to increase the sword’s value by attributing it to a famous smith.
  • Many high-quality old swords have gimei from later periods due to high demand.

F. Zaimei (在銘) – “Signed Blade”

  • A sword that retains its original signature.
  • Opposite of mumei (無銘, unsigned blade).

G. Mumei (無銘) – “Unsigned Blade”

  • A sword without an inscription, often due to:
    • A polisher removing the mei to adjust the nakago.
    • A blade being shortened (suriage, 磨上げ), cutting off the mei.
    • Some schools, such as Mino-den, traditionally not signing all blades.

3. Common Mei Inscriptions (銘の例, Mei Examples)

Many sword inscriptions follow a specific format:

  1. Swordsmith’s Name (作, Saku)
    • Example: 兼光作 (Kanemitsu Saku) → “Made by Kanemitsu.”
  2. Province Name (国, Kuni)
    • Example: 備前国住長船則光 (Bizen no Kuni Jū Osafune Norimitsu) → “Norimitsu of Osafune, residing in Bizen Province.”
  3. Honorary Titles (受命, Jumei)
    • Some of these titles, such as “Kami” (守, Lord/Protector) and “Daijō” (大掾, Senior Steward), indicated official appointments, while others, like “Suke” (助, Assistant), were stepping stones to higher ranks. Understanding these titles is crucial for dating and authenticating Japanese swords.
  4. Commemorative or Dedicated Blades
    • Example: 奉納 (Hōnō, Dedicated to a Shrine or Deity).