A DIPLOMAT SWORD Showa era (1926-1989), mid-20th century The rapier of diamond section and chiseled with parallel bohi on both sides, the saya lacquered black and mounted with gilt metal fittings chiseled with stiff leaf bands, floral vines, and clouds, the hanger formed as a leaf below and cherry-blossom boss, the handle with a pierced apron decorated with paulownia crest, the handguard with scrolling vines and paulownia crests on a stippled ground terminating in a phoenix head, with an embroidered tassel ending in gold bullion coils, with a label affixed to the scabbard reading Homma Shinko, the former owner With the original leather storage case with a label bearing the former owners name and address 34 5/8in (87.9cm) long overall For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing