丁子足 (Choji Ashi)

What is Choji Ashi in Japanese Katana terminology?

Choji Ashi  refers to a type of blade pattern (Hamon) in Japanese swords. It is a feature that extends from the 'valley' of the ""丁子乱"" (Choji Midare) blade pattern (Hamon) towards the blade tip, resembling a 'foot'.

When it extends long, it is called ""足長丁子"" (Ashinaga Choji), and when it extends in the direction of the blade tip, it is called ""逆丁子"" (Saka Choji).

This pattern is mainly seen in blade pattern (Hamon)s that are predominantly ""匂"" (Nioi), which are small particles that form a pattern on the blade when it is tempered. Because of its distinctiveness, it serves as an important clue in identifying the name of the swordsmith, the era, and the place of production.