Introduction to the Beauty of Japanese Swords: Ancient Tradition, Living Culture, Modern Art

An introduction to Japanese swords as art. The sword has been an integral part of Japanese culture since earliest times, included among burial goods along with other sacred items. Swords continue to be devoted to shrines as vessels in which for the patron deities to reside, or for spiritual protection. Although it is fundamentally a weapon, they were the least used item within the warriors arsenal. This talk introduces the sword from its spiritual roots and influence on Japanese culture, its development as a weapon, and its unique aspect as fine art.

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This event is a part of YCAPS' "Getting to Know Japan Series".

Speaker:

Paul Martin was born in England. A former curator at the British Museum. He is currently a trustee and researcher for the Society for the Promotion of Japanese Sword Culture (NBSK), an appointed specialist by the Japan Tourist Agency. In 2022 and 2023, he was the sword lecturer for NHK’s Shumi Doki! Token Lovers. He is a two-time winner of the Tokyo sword appraisal competition (the only foreigner to do so). He has appeared in many documentaries around the world, translated important texts on Japanese swords, and is an accomplished martial artist.

Format: This event will not be recorded. Questions are encouraged during the live event and all questions will be off the record.

Registration: Required Link

Moderators: Amani Kidd and Jeffery Mazziotta

Webinar Cost: Free of charge