The 2009 KTK Exhibition book is the latest installment of the KTK series, and was published in conjunction with the Nihonto Bunka Shinko Kyokai (NBSK).   This edition features exceptional pieces from private international collections as well as the Sano Museum, covering major schools of both iron and soft-metal from the Nanbokucho through late Edo periods.  Tosogu cover Ko katchushi, Tachishi, Ezo, Owari, Ko Shoami, Akasaka, Yamakichibei, Kaneie, Yagyu, Nanban, Saotome, early Goto, Umetada, Onin, Ko kinko, Ko Mino and Hirata Hikozo among others.

In addition, this edition includes two articles.  First is an article by Andrew Mancabelli detailing the evolution of the habaki from the Kofun through Momoyama periods.  It illustrates how this fitting was critical in the development of the Japanese sword, changes in form and function over a millenia, and why it continues to be misunderstood and underappreciated.   The second article by Saulus Ploplys entitled The Mon as a Design Element of Tsuba, details a variety of mon motifs seen in tsuba and discusses the prevalence of certain themes.

KTK catalogues have become collectors items due to the high quality of photography, access to numerous unpublished pieces and quality articles.  The 2009 catalogues were limited to 400 copies all of which have been sold-out.

$75