Lectures
An Introduction to the Beauty of Japanese Swords
Synopsis
This lecture will be an introduction to Japanese swords as art. The sword has been an integral part of Japanese culture since earliest times, included among burial goods along with other sacred items. Swords continue to be devoted to shrines as vessels in which for the patron deities to reside, or for spiritual protection. Although it is fundamentally a weapon, they were the least used item within the warrior’s arsenal. This talk introduces the sword from its spiritual roots and influence on Japanese culture, its development as a weapon, and its unique aspect as fine art.
Brief Biography
Paul Martin is a former curator in the Japanese section at the British Museum, London. He holds an M.A. in Asian Studies (Japan) from the University of Berkeley, California, and has resided in Japan working as a Japanese sword specialist for over twenty years. He is a regular presenter of swords on NHK E-Tele and NHK World. He is also a trustee of the Society for the Promotion of Japanese Sword Culture (NBSK), a recognized specialist by the Ministry of Land Infrastructure, Tourism and Transport, and has produced several books and DVDs on Japanese swords.
Lecture Date
Monday, September 22, 2025