The Art of the Japanese Sword: The Craft of Swordmaking and its Appreciation

As a brand new sword maker in the world of Japanese swords this was a must have book for me! It’s awesome!

What a spectacular book.I am so grateful that, Leon Kapp and Yoshindo Yoshihara - (and the rest of the team that worked so hard on this book) - are the kind of people who understand the belief that: 'If you get you must give and if you've learned you must teach".Over a thousand years of teachings, of trial and error, have all been coalesced into this book and it, like the swords that come from Master Yoshindo's forge, is a masterpiece.Each page is a treasure trove of wisdom and techniques and the more you read, the more you begin to discover that the Japanese sword, who's origins began as a quest for the ultimate edged weapon, has now evolved into a science and an art.This book has changed my view of the Japanese sword and I now wish to do all I can to continue to learn about and preserve these precious portals into the past. I now appreciate that the Japanese sword is not just an art piece crafted by one single artist, but rather; each sword is a symphony - a collaboration between multiple craftsmen; smelters, steel smiths, polishers, engravers and carpenters who have all dedicated their lives to producing an item of true beauty - the perfect balance between form and function.If you have a love for Japanese swords, or if you just wish to learn more about the Japanese Culture behind their production, then I recommend that you read "The Art of the Japanese Sword". It is an in-depth revelation into all the hand-skills, the technology, the tools and the means of appreciation that you will need to get better acquainted with this fine craft and these fine artifacts. This book has greatly enriched me, the reader. And it has sent me on a quest to one day, (hopefully), be the custodian of one of these great swords. I say custodian, because I have learned that you can never truly own one of these swords - you merely look after it for the following generation.Wynton Visser -JewellerSouth Africa.

If you are familiar with master swordsmith Yoshindo Yoshihara, perhaps from one of the NHK World specials, then you will enjoy this beautiful book. The book can certainly stand on its on, but it is a lovely adjunct to one of the several videos about this amazing craftsman and his art.

No dislikes, informative ,filled in some blanks I had. Can't wait to go to Cayuna iron range. Gave me some ideas.

Ordered for my kid who is a great fan of Samurai history and the Japanese culture in general. It turned out to be such a fantastic looking book - large and heavy - could be used as coffee table book too.Apart from looks more importantly it’s a well written and illustrated book.

This book is a must have book if you are interested in Japanese swords. One should note that it is specific. It covers the making of a blade from Tamahagane (bloom iron) through forging, polishing, Habaki crafting, and ending with the making of a Shirasaya (Storage Scabbard). The book does start with a brief history of Japanese swords ,Blade description ,sword appreciation, and a little about sword furniture. There are many clear photos along with descriptions that explain the entire process. The book is beautiful and well written. I wish there were about another 20 pages to cover the Tsuka,Tsuba, Saya, and other koshirae better. But I admit they are covered in many other books and are subjects in themselves.Buy this book . You won't be disappointed.

It presented a very through and graphic picture of what the Sword means to the Japanese culture. The photography is stunning and well displayed throughout the entire book. Of the several books I have on this subject it is one of the best. ifout the best!

Excellent book. Full of very clear photos of all aspects of Japanese swords, the different types and styles, as well as the making of the sword. The author, Yoshindo Yoshihara-sama is recognized as one of the finest living Japanese swordsmiths, so in my opinion this book is golden. Took a few days to ship, then arrived very quickly, and in brand new condition, as advertised. I highly recommend it for Japanese sword enthusiasts. Five stars.

Nice hardback book full of information on the design and making of the Japanese Samurai Sword.

I bought this as a gift for my husband, and he is very pleased with it. It's a comprehensive look at the manufacture, care and use of samurai swords, with beautiful illustrations. I would say it's an essential addition to the library of anyone interested in Japanese culture and the history of Japanese swords.

This book is beautifully photographed & illustrated.It contains an in-depth look into how a sword is forged & polished which is what I was looking for.

This book was a gift for my husband who has been fascinated by the manufacture of the Japanese sword and an avid reader. It seemed a good match. He found the book beautiful and writen so it was very accessible to the reader.

Expensive, but worth every penny. This book has become the star addition to my library. The Kapps together with Yoshihara Yoshindo make an unassailable combination.