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Berlin bombsite yields 18th C. Japanese sword

Discussion in 'WWII Today' started by GRW, Aug 27, 2024.

  1. GRW

    GRW Pillboxologist WW2|ORG Editor

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    More amazed there are still bomb sites there.
    Apparently these cellars were a treasure trove when excavated.
    "Archaeologists in Germany have unearthed a rare, 17th-century Japanese samurai sword from the wreckage of a cellar that was destroyed during World War II.
    The team discovered the heavily corroded short sword, known as a wakizashi, while excavating Molkenmarkt, Berlin's oldest square. Initially, the archaeologists thought the weapon was a military parade saber, but further analysis revealed the sword was actually from Edo period Japan (1603 to 1868). The weapon's blade might be even older, possibly dating to the 16th century, according to a translated statement from the Museum of Prehistory and Early History of the Berlin State Museums. It may have been brought to Germany in the 1800s as part of a diplomatic mission, archaeologists said."
    'Richly decorated weapon' from Edo Japan unearthed in World War II rubble in Germany | Live Science
     
  2. OpanaPointer

    OpanaPointer I Point at Opana Staff Member WW2|ORG Editor

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    I loved watching the swordsmiths work when I was in Japan. After a few months of seeing me every few days they started asking me to tea. I was as polite as a gaijin can get, and they evidently approved. They rare sold to non-Japanese but I got a katana from them. Being courteous and not so American can be helpful at times.
     
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