Yasurimei are the file marks that
appear when the nakago or tang is finished by the sword smith. This is done
with a file may be cut deeply or lightly.
The styles vary from smith to smith, but are
usually the same on both sides. The file marks are added before the smith
chisels his signature (Mei) onto the nakago. Some styles are displayed
below.
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Kiri
Straight file marks from the edge to the
back of the nakago. The most commonly seen patern of file marks.
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Katte Sagari
File marks slanting toward the tip
of the nakago from the edge/ha to the back/mune. This is the second most
common yasuri pattern.
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Katte Agari
Opposite of the Katte Sagari, angled
file marks slanting from the edge/ha to the back/mune, towards the tip/kisaki.
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Sujikai
Steeply slanting file marks. A commonly
seen pattern.
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Takanoha
Hawk feather pattern. This style is often seen on Yamato
blades.
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Kesho Yasuri
This style is common in Shinto period and
later. Kesho means "makeup"
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