皆焼 (Hitatsura)

What is Hitatsura in Japanese Katana terminology?

Hitatsura is a type of blade pattern (Hamon) in Japanese swords. It is not only the blade part, but also the result of tempering each part of the ""平地"" (Hiraji: flat surface of the blade), ""鎬地"" (Shinogiji: ridge area of the blade), and ""棟"" (Mune: back ridge of the blade), which results in a net-like pattern that fills the entire sword. This blade pattern (Hamon) is characteristic of the ""相州伝"" (Soshu tradition) during the Nanbokucho period.

The term ""Hitatsura"" literally means ""entirely tempered"", and it refers to a blade where the tempering extends across the entire width and length of the blade, rather than being confined to the edge. This results in a complex and intricate pattern that covers the entire surface of the blade.

The Soshu tradition, which originated in the Kamakura region, is known for its innovative and distinctive tempering techniques, and Hitatsura is one of its most iconic blade pattern (Hamon)s. This style of tempering requires a high level of skill and precision, and it is considered a hallmark of master swordsmiths from the Soshu tradition.