JAPANESE SHORT SWORD (WAKIZASHI),Shinto sword period (17th century). Blade: komidare (small irregular patterns) hamon (temper line), barely visible, one tateware (lengthwise opening) in temper area, about 3/4 in. long; some chipping near habaki (collar) which is two piece gold gilt, with flying bird motif. Nakago (tang): Ubu, (uncut), mu-mei (not signed), one mekugi-ana (peg hole). Koshirae: fuchi kashira fine shakudo and nanako with gold gilt flying birds. Kodzuka of pine tree motif with setting sun saya (scabbard) black lacquered with fine gold tinted water waves with flying gilt birds. Tsuba of pitter iron and bamboo motif over two figures - 17 3/16 in., 43 7/10 cm. Estimate $800-1,000