Damascus Steel Katana with Peony Tsuba in Brown Cord Handle & Dark Red Lacquer Saya

The blade is the defining statement of this katana. Forged from Damascus steel, the nagasa displays the characteristic folded-layer wave patterns inherent to the material - light and shadow shift across the surface as the angle changes. A genuine hamon runs the length of the edge, the visible result of differential heat treatment between the hardened edge zone and the body of the blade. At 40.55 inches overall with a 1.259-inch width at the base, the geometry follows traditional katana proportions. For collectors interested in this steel family, the full Brown Damascus Steel Katana collection covers additional configurations.

The tsuka is wrapped in brown cord ito over a PU black samegawa base. The ito is hand-laid in a traditional diagonal diamond pattern - each wrap seated firmly before the next, producing consistent spacing and grip texture across the full handle length. The brown-on-black color pairing creates a grounded, warm contrast that carries through the entire koshirae.

The tsuba is cast alloy in a gold-and-silver finish, with a raised peony motif rendered in gold against the silver ground. The peony design - a recurring symbol in Japanese decorative arts representing honor and elegance - is executed with individual petal definition rather than flat stamping. Fuchi and kashira fittings carry coordinating metalwork that ties the handle assembly together.

The saya is crafted from hardwood and finished in multiple coats of premium natural lacquer, producing the deep, even dark red visible across its full length. The lacquer surface is smooth and protective, guarding the wood grain beneath while reflecting light with a low-gloss warmth. A black buffalo-horn kurikata anchors the brown sageo cord, which matches the ito wrap and provides the traditional securing loop at the hip.

At 2.8 lbs and 40.55 inches overall, this katana is sized and balanced for display in koshirae style - presented as a complete, matched set of blade, handle, fittings, and saya. The peony tsuba, dark red lacquer, and brown cord form a cohesive color scheme that makes this piece a visually distinctive addition to any Japanese sword collection.