JAPANESE SHORT SWORD (WAKIZASHI),Shinto sword period (17th century). Blade: strong choji midare (uneven choji), slight tateware (lengthwise opening), nakago (tang): suriagi (partially cut off), one and a half mekugi-ana (peg holes), signature (five kanji not distinct). Matching kiri-kata and kojiri dragon motif, matching fuchi kashira of old gilt trim d iron, with gilt tiger (?) menuki - 22 11/16 in., 59 3/5 cm. Estimate $500-700