Month: June 2017

On June 19, the All Japan’s Sword Traders Association and the NBTHK had a management conference in Ginza. I was happy to be able to join. We welcome the new Chairman, Mr. Shimizu and celebrated the retirement of the previous chairman, Mr. Fukami.

 

The All Japan’s Sword Traders Association plans to start the certification of sword appraisers as one of the big events this year. The NBTHK also has a big event planned to move their Headquarters and Token Museum from Yoyogi to Ryogoku.

 

I am certain we will be both relying on each other to expand and develop the Japanese swords enthusiasts and its culture.

The “Endangered Species Preservation Act” of Japan was amended on June 2 to help strengthen the regulation of the ivory trade. Today the explanation was given to All Japan Sword Trader’s Association from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, the department in charge. This Amended Act will be enforced from next year and will mean there will be a creation of a registration system and the penalties will be strengthened for not following the rules.

 

In Japan, ivory has been used since ancient times for things such as seals, Netsuke and the handles for wall hangings. However, strict management of the Japanese market is required for the global protection movement against endangered species, and we must demonstrate to the rest of the world that proper precautions are taking place and that Japan is taking action.

 

In our business, some of the Mekugi and Hatome have been made of ivory that was used in the Shirasaya. This means all sword traders should register under this new Act because there is always the possibility that we can come across some of the old work where even a small amount of ivory has been used.

 

 

I was invited to participate as an auctioneer for the Sapporo BJK Auction on June 7th for their Sword and sword fitting section.
Initially, the BJK Auction mainly auctioned brand items and jewellery, however three years ago they started to also work with swords and sword fittings.
The owner of the Auction requested my help to support their Sword and Sword fittings auctions. I offered to help expand the sword trading business in Hokkaido, the northern island of Japan.
There were more than hundred auctioned items during my time making for a very successful event.

I had a great experience and hope to participate in the next November Auction.