​Vintage Dance Katana with Striped Textile, Buyōtō, 1960s, Japan

A Japanese theatre and dance katana (buyōtō) from the 1960s, featuring a beautifully weathered wooden scabbard and distinctive traditional details.

Dimensions: H 98 × W 8.5 × D 8.5 cm.

The elongated wooden scabbard (saya) is finished in black lacquer, which has developed a rich, timeworn patina over the years. Areas of wear and flaking reveal the warm natural wood beneath the dark lacquer.

An old piece of blue-and-white striped textile is tied around the scabbard. Its faded colours and frayed edges give the sword an authentic appearance, creating a beautiful contrast with the dark wood.

The handle is traditionally wrapped in black cord over a light-coloured base. The circular metal handguard (tsuba) features intricate openwork with stylised, fan-shaped leaf motifs and has developed a natural dark patina.

The blade is made of lightweight metal and shows visible signs of use. The combination of the metal blade and traditional detailing reflects its purpose as a prop for Japanese theatre and dance performances.

In authentic vintage condition, with clear signs of age and use on the lacquerwork, handle, textile and blade, as shown in the photographs.

A decorative collector's piece with a distinctive historical character. Beautiful as a wall display or as part of a collection of Japanese katana, theatrical objects and traditional art.

Supplied without the display stand shown in the photographs.