備前伝 Bizen-den

What is Bizen-den of Japanese Katana terminology

"Bizen-den" is one of the "Gokaden", a traditional method of sword making that developed in Bizen (now Okayama Prefecture) from the late Heian period onwards. It is characterized by a curvature that starts just above the tang (nakago), and a pattern that appears like a shadow when held up to the light, similar to the blade pattern, known as "midare-bayashi". From the late Heian period to the early Kamakura period, and up to the Meiji period, Bizen was a synonymous production area for Japanese swords, producing numerous renowned craftsmen.