Damascus Steel Wakizashi in Black with Gold Chrysanthemum Tsuba - Full Tang Short Katana

The blade of this wakizashi is forged from Damascus manganese steel, producing the characteristic layered wave pattern across its 28.74-inch nagasa. Heat treatment brings the steel to 62 HRC, and a visible hamon line traces the entire length of the edge - contrasting the chrome-toned blade surface against the darker spine. The full tang construction ensures the blade runs uninterrupted through the handle for structural integrity throughout the piece.

The tsuka measures 10.62 inches and is wrapped in traditional black tsuka-ito cord over genuine rayskin (samegawa), whose textured nodes show through the diamond-shaped gaps in the wrapping. Both the samegawa and the ito are finished in black, creating a unified, clean look along the handle. Gold-toned kashira and fuchi fittings cap and collar the grip, tying the tsuka visually to the tsuba.

The tsuba is cast from alloy in a rich gold tone and engraved with a full chrysanthemum motif - clusters of petals filling the face of the guard in fine relief. The inner ring features a geometric cutwork band that frames the habaki collar. In Japanese tradition, the chrysanthemum is a symbol of longevity and imperial refinement, making this guard one of the most visually striking elements of the Black Damascus Steel Wakizashi koshirae.

The saya is shaped from hardwood and finished in a matte black lacquer, 29.92 inches in length. A black sageo cord is tied at the kurigata in a structured knot, adding texture and traditional detail to the otherwise clean matte surface. The matte finish avoids glare and gives the saya a grounded, understated quality that lets the gold tsuba and hamon blade draw the eye.

At 40.55 inches overall and 4.4 lb., this wakizashi sits within authentic proportions for the form. Whether displayed horizontally on a stand or mounted as part of a Hand Forged Wakizashi collection, the gold-on-black color palette and Damascus patterned blade make it a cohesive, high-detail piece suited for serious collectors and Japanese sword enthusiasts alike.