The long awaited 2008 KTK Exhibition book is likely the most comprehensive of the KTK series.  This book is in dedication to Kengo Sekido-sensei who passed away in February 2008.  Sekido-sensei was one of the foremost collectors of tosogu in Japan, and some of his finest pieces are featured in this edition.  Masterworks from the Sekido Collection include Natsuo, Iwamoto Konkan, Ishiguro Masayoshi and Murakami Jochiku.  This edition also features exceptional pieces from private international collections, covering major schools of both iron and soft-metal from the Nanbokucho through late Edo periods.  Tosogu cover Ko katchushi, Tachishi, Owari, Shoami, Akasaka, Yagyu, Nanban, Saotome, early Goto, Umetada, Ko kinko, Mogarishi Soten, Yasuchika, Hirata Hikozo and Hamano among others.

In addition, this edition includes an article detailing the development of Ezo tosogu from both historical and artistic perspectives.   It covers the evolution of the Ezo tradition from the Heian through early Edo periods, discusses possible affiliations to other groups, and addresses gaps in our knowledge of this important early group of tosogu.  It is to my knowledge the first work to include a synopsis of Ezo metallurgy utilizing SEM (scanning elecron microscopy) on multiple pieces.

KTK catalogues have become collectors items due to the high quality of photography, access to numerous unpublished pieces and quality articles.  The 2008 catalogues were limited to 400 copies, and many have been pre-sold or donated to individuals and institutions. 

$75