A History of the World in 100 Objects: samurai sword

The Samurai sword has become an almost legendary part of Japanese culture.

Japanese Samurai Blade, steel, 1200-1250, from the 100 Objects exhibition in Manarat Al Saadiyat. Mona Al-Marzooqi/ The National
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Used by the samurai warriors in Japan as early as the 12th century, the samurai sword has become an almost legendary part of Japanese culture.
The blades were made by master swordsmiths who crafted them in the dead of night, with just the light from the melted steel to guide them, so that they could protect their forging secrets.
They were so sharp they could slice through limbs with a single slash. In the 1800s, such items became highly desirable for collectors in the West and were crafted specifically for export.
This blade, however, is dated from 1200-1250, which is when this type of sword, known as a tachi, was in prominence.
It is slightly longer and more curved than other samurai swords and was worn suspended, with the sharp edge facing downward.
Samurai warriors wore their swords on the left side so that the weapon could be drawn with the right hand.

Becky Allen, the curator of the 100 Objects exhibition, says this item is one of her favourites because she has always been fascinated with samurai culture.

Each Tuesday, Arts&Life will focus on one artefact on show as part of A History of the World in 100 Objects, an exhibition running until August 1 at Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi