How to Display Samurai Swords
- 1
Wall display
Choose from a variety of stands for displaying a samurai sword. The most convenient are the table stands that can hold one to three swords in a horizontal position. Wall mounts save space by storing up to eight weapons. Floor versions can hold up to a dozen swords. These wood displays can be lacquered black or left with a natural finish to show the grain. - 2
Katana display
Display a standard "katana" in the scabbard on a horizontal stand. The blade must face up to replicate how it is worn by the samurai. Special occasions such as museum displays can show the sword unsheathed in the same position. Enclosing the sword and stand in a clear case removes the risk of the cutting blade facing the viewer. - 3
Handles to the left
Put the handle on the left to show a welcoming attitude. When using his sheathed sword, a samurai would pick up the scabbard in his left hand and draw the sword with his right. Thus, swords displayed with the handle to the right of the viewer indicate an aggressive stance. - 4
To display a "tachi," which is longer than a "katana" and contains many ornaments on the scabbard, use a special stand called a "tachi kake". The sheathed sword is placed vertically with the handle at the base of the rack. The cutting edge faces the rear and rests on the support bar. Because this sword is used primarily from horseback, display positioning for combat readiness is not an issue. - 5
Horizontal tachi display
To display a sheathed "tachi" horizontally, the blade side must face down. This simulates how the sword is dangled from the waist. The handle is typically put on the left for the same reasons as the "katana." - 6
Daisho display
A "daisho" refers to a set of two swords: the standard "katana" and the shorter "wakizashi." Displaying these together requires a two-sword display. The "wakizashi" goes on the lower, front rack, while the "katana" stays on the upper, rear.
