Grain Pattern
The actual HADA pattern can be combinations of the following:
MASAME - KO-MASAME - O-MASAME - |
Straight-like grain
pattern Small straight pattern Large straight pattern |
ITAME - KO-ITAME - O-ITAME - |
Wood "grain like a
board" Small wood pattern Large wood pattern |
MOKUME - KO-MOKUME - O-MOKUME - |
Burl-like grain pattern
Small burl pattern Large burl pattern |
AYASUGI - | Flowing Cedar. Large undulating wave grain pattern |
NASHIJI - | Flesh of a Pear pattern Condition of very finely worked HADA |
MUJI - | No grain |
///////ARTWORK////// All grain patterns// |
The terms may be seen used short, MASA, ITA, MOKU as, "O-ITA KO-MOKU mix." This is generally improper, however.
O-HADA is a large grain pattern or an individually large area of grain. These might be called UZU, swirling cloud or whirlpool.
////Missing graphic -
ARTWORK////
YAUBASHIRI / UZU-MAKI, etc |
YUBASHIRI is a term used to describe the swirling condition of a certain form of running HADA. The term YUBASHIRI means "running water" and is also used for swirling or wisp-like features of the hardened edge pattern, or YAKIBA.
When a grain pattern appears drawn-out it may be labeled, "running," "flowing," or "streaming."
Sword descriptions may note HADA as being "pronounced" or "standing out."
NOTE: Some publications use "ITAME" to denote the presence of patterned grain or to describe any grain pattern other than straight-grain, MASAME, or no grain, MU-JI. Occasionally, one finds auction or museum pamphlets confusing "ITAME" for patina, a misunderstanding. Grain pattern may actually be MOKUME or combinations. |
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