The Japanese sword came into being more than a thousand years ago, and its long history can be divided into five periods, each coinciding with historical events and changes that influenced the means of combat and the types of sword being made, their construction, and style of blade.

The most recent period, characterized by the gendaito or "contemporary sword," began in the late nineteenth century when Japan started modernizing its military forces and the demand for traditional swords virtually disappeared.

Most of the positive developments in recent swordmaking came after World War II--more specifically, after 1964. Today, swords are viewed less as weapons than as works of art, and though swordsmiths model their work on classic blades and make use of traditional techniques and materials, their efforts to create a new style of sword are apparent.

The work of the best smiths, including those designated Living National Treasures, are shown here in this authoritative new publication. Collectors, as well as readers interested in skilled craftmanship in general, will certainly want to acquire it.

About the Author
Leon Kapp is a molecular biologist at the University of California in San Francisco. He has studied swordmaking in Japan. Yoshindo Yoshihara is a tenth-generation swordsmith and is ranked among the top sword craftsmen in Japan today. Hiroko Kapp, active graphic artist, is a correspondent for the Senken new organization. These three are the authors of the bestselling The Craft of the Japanese Sword.

Keywords: Modern Japanese Swords and Swordsmiths: From 1868 to the Present, Books, Leon Kapp, Hiroko Kapp, Yoshindo Yoshihara, Antiques/Collectibles, Art & Art Instruction, Art, History - Asian, Military - Weapons, Firearms & Weapons, Antiques & Collectibles