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Product description
The expression `ten kei` translates as `a gift from heaven` and symbolizes the beauty of nature. The hand-made fine floral motifs, finished in gold and silver, draw their inspiration from ten kei.
This katana measures 101 cm overall, with a 71 cm blade and a 29.5 cm grip (tsuka). It weighs 1050 g. The blade is hand-forged in the elaborate Kobuse style, with a softer low-carbon steel core wrapped in harder 1095 carbon steel. Hardness varies from HRC 60 at the cutting edge to HRC 40 at the spine. These differences are visible in the well-crafted blade pattern (hamon).
The grip wrapping is made from green silk in the Katate-Maki style, underlaid with genuine shagreen — a style typical of battle use. A black high-polish lacquered scabbard (saya) in the Kuroro style features closings (kojiri, kurigata, koiguchi) made from buffalo horn. A long tang (nakago) locks into the grip with two bamboo pins (mekugi). Each katana ships with a striking wooden collector's box and a high-polish lacquered stand with velvet.
John Lee's models draw on historical originals and deliver high-quality craftsmanship. No plastics — only authentic materials like metal, brass, wood, and shagreen. Every John Lee weapon comes with a seal and a certificate of authenticity.
